Nigeria, India Sign MoUs On Custom, Cultural Exchange, Others
(Foreign Affairs)
Reporting: Mohammed Jinadu
In the latest effort towards enhancing bilateral relations, Nigeria and India have signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on cultural exchange, customs cooperation, and survey collaboration.
The agreements were formalized on Friday at a ceremony that highlighted the enduring partnership between the two nations.
The Permanent Secretary of the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ahmed Dumoma Umar, represented Nigeria during the signing, while the Additional Secretary (Economic Relations) of India, Mr. Dammu Ravi,signed on behalf of the Indian government.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Umar expressed enthusiasm for the agreements, stating, “The new MoUs we signed today are symbols of shared vision for growth, innovation, and sustainable development with India. This marks yet another milestone in our long-standing partnership.”
Emphasizing the importance of implementation, Umar added, “The success of the MoUs depends not only on the agreements signed but also on our commitment to their provisions. I believe that the relevant stakeholders from both countries will work together to ensure the realization of this great milestone for the benefits of our people.”
Umar also hinted at future developments, mentioning upcoming visits from key leaders: “With the upcoming visits of the Indian Prime Minister, we are expecting more agreements to be signed. The relationship between Nigeria and India is very strong and cordial.”
The Permanent Secretary further highlighted the historical ties between the nations: “For decades, Nigeria and India have shared strong ties rooted in democracy and pluralism. Our partnership has always been one of mutual respect and shared aspirations.
Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Dammu Ravi emphasized the evolution of the India-Nigeria relationship. “We have a very strong commitment to multi-ethnicity, multi-religions, and pluralism. The over 60,000 Indians in Nigeria contribute significantly to the economy, and we are grateful for the kind treatment they receive,” he stated.
Ravi confidently anticipates that the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi will further stimulate cooperation in diverse sectors, especially in economic relationships. “The three agreements we sign will set a significant milestone for us to work upon and deepen our relationship,” he added.
Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, also weighed in on the importance of the new agreements. “Cultural diplomacy is vital for making the world a better place and building collaborations,” she asserted. Musawa called for a strengthened cultural ecosystem in Nigeria that fosters creativity and enhances partnerships with India.
“My ministry will be looking to expand these collaborations,” she continued. “There is a vast potential for cultural exchanges that could amplify our creative industries and make our expressions louder on a global platform.”
