Abuja: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Indian diaspora in Nigeria on Sunday during the first leg of his three-nation visit.

Prime Minister Modi mentioned the historical importance of the relationship between the two countries in matters of culture, economy, and the role played by the Indian diaspora in the growth of Nigeria.

He began his speech with ‘Sannu, Nigeria’ which means Hello, used as a traditional greeting in Nigeran tradition.

Hindi and Yoga Gaining Popularity In Yoga

On the occasion, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that both Hindi and Yoga are growing in popularity in Nigeria, with Nigerian citizens showing a strong interest in both.

“Yoga is getting popular in Nigeria, it seems you are not practicing Yoga, but Nigerians are definitely practicing it…Hindi is also getting popular in Nigeria. The youth in Nigeria, especially in Kano (state) are learning Hindi,” Prime Minister told Indian Diaspora.

PM Modi Recalls Nigeria’s Role In Indian Freedom Struggle

Prime Minister said that both India and Nigeria inspired each other during their respective freedom movements.

“Nigerian people left no stone unturned for India’s independence movement. After India attained independence, it inspired Nigeria’s freedom struggle,” he said.

‘Indians Have Played Key Role In Boosting Nigeria’s Economy’

Prime Minister recalled the the role played by Indian businessman Kishinchand Chellaram ji who operated a global trading network, K. Chellaram & Sons.

“Before India’s independence, Kishinchand Chellaram ji visited Nigeria, and at that time, no one could have predicted that his company would grow into one of the largest businesses in Nigeria. The Indian diaspora has played a significant role in boosting Nigeria’s economy…In almost every household here, people here enjoy Tolaram Noodles with great enthusiasm,” he said.

‘India a Mother of Democracy, Nigeria Biggest Democracy of Africa’

Remembering Mahatma Gandhi’s time in Africa, the Prime Minister said, “India lived in Africa for a significant period, during which he shared the joys and sorrows of its people. During the time of slavery, both the people of India and Nigeria tirelessly pursued their quest for freedom. When India gained independence, it also inspired the freedom movement in Nigeria.”

“Today, India and Nigeria continue to move forward together as partners, reflecting the bond forged during their struggles. While India is the mother of democracy, Nigeria is the biggest democracy in Africa. We both have the commonality of democracy, diversity, and the energy of demography,” he added. 

PM Modi Invites Indian Diaspora to visit India for Mahakumbh Mela

Prime Minister invited the Indian diaspora to visit India for upcoming religious, and other cultural events lined up in the early months of 2025.

“Come with your Nigerian friends…Next year many festivals and events are coming. January 26 is the Republic Day, there will be Pravasiya Bhartiya Divas in the second week of January which will be celebrated in the land of Lord Jagannath in Odisha. From January 13 to February 26, there will be Mahakumbh in Prayagraj. There are so many to reasons for you to come here. You can also go to visit Ram Temple in Ayodhya which is near Prayagraj…Varanasi is also not far away,” PM said.

“This will be a memorable trip for you,” he added.

Nigerians Between Age 40-60 Must Have Been Taught By Indian Teacher at Some Point

“The Indian diaspora has been part of both joyful and challenging times in Nigeria. It’s likely that Nigerians between the ages of 40 and 60 have, at some point, been taught by an Indian teacher here,” he said.

After receiving Nigeria’s highest national honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that the recognition would inspire him to further strengthen and elevate the India-Nigeria strategic partnership to new levels.