Nigeria and India have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations, strengthening defence cooperation and advancing collaboration among countries of the Global South.
The pledge was made during a courtesy visit by participants of the 66th Course of India’s National Defence College to Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, where discussions focused on security, diplomacy, economic cooperation and emerging global challenges.
Receiving the delegation, Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, described relations between both countries as longstanding and cordial, built on shared democratic values, historical ties and growing economic engagement.
He said the visit provided an opportunity to deepen cooperation in critical sectors, including defence, security, technology transfer, capacity building and sustainable development.
Ambassador Ahmed praised India’s support for Nigeria in military training and professional development, noting that such partnerships had helped strengthen institutional capacity and enhance regional security.
“Nigeria appreciates India’s longstanding support in military training, professional development and defence cooperation, which have contributed significantly to strengthening institutional capacities and promoting regional security,” he said.
The discussions also examined Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities, regional security challenges and the evolving global geopolitical landscape. Ambassador Ahmed stressed the importance of stronger collaboration among developing nations, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to South-South cooperation through platforms such as BRICS and other multilateral arrangements.
He highlighted Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa through efforts to advance the African Union’s Agenda 2063, regional peace initiatives, infrastructure development and economic integration.
According to the Permanent Secretary, both countries also explored opportunities for enhanced cooperation in counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, border management, professional military education and the use of emerging technologies to address modern security threats.
Speaking on behalf of the visiting delegation, Manoj thanked the ministry for its hospitality and described the engagement as productive. He commended the enduring relationship between Nigeria and India and expressed confidence that continued dialogue would further strengthen bilateral ties and contribute to global peace, security and development.
The meeting ended with both sides reaffirming their commitment to expanding cooperation in diplomacy, defence, security, education, technology and development.
