The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Shri G. Balasubramanian, has lauded Nigeria as a fertile ground for Indian investments. In an exclusive interview with Weekend Trust, he described the longstanding relationship between both countries as “fantastic.” Their ties date back to 1958, two years before Nigeria’s independence. He emphasised that shared multicultural, multi-ethnic, and multilingual attributes have fostered mutual understanding and strong collaborations between the two nations. With a significant Indian community of approximately 50,000 people in Nigeria and many Nigerians pursuing studies, work, or health care in India, he noted that this relationship continues to thrive.
Nigeria is India’s largest trading partner in Africa, and Indian companies have invested heavily in its economy. The High Commissioner revealed that over 200 Indian companies currently operate in Nigeria, with investments exceeding $27 billion across sectors such as pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and health care. These businesses provide employment to thousands of Nigerians, making India the second-largest employer in Nigeria after the federal government. He stated that this growing presence reflects Indian companies’ confidence in Nigeria’s business environment.
Indian firms boost Nigeria’s health care and education.
In health care, Indian firms have played a crucial role in meeting Nigeria’s needs. Hospitals like Primus and Tulsi Chanrai Foundation have offered affordable medical treatment, while plans are underway to expand facilities across all geopolitical zones. On education, India has consistently supported Nigeria through scholarships, training over 500 Nigerians annually on full scholarships. The High Commissioner further highlighted cultural collaborations, including Nollywood-Bollywood partnerships and joint productions, which have strengthened people-to-people connections between both nations.
Moreover, India’s expertise in information Technology is also paving the way for closer ties. The High Commissioner disclosed plans for a digital public Infrastructure agreement, aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s technological capacity in both public and private sectors. Indian firms have already trained Nigerians in digital innovation, and the country’s creative industry is benefitting from Indian expertise, with 60–70 percent of global special effects handled in India. These initiatives, he said, underscore the potential for mutual growth in technology and the creative economy.
Collaboration between India and Nigeria enhances growth.
Furthermore, dismissing claims that BRICS is anti-Western, he explained that the organisation focuses on supporting development in the Global South through initiatives like the New Development Bank. He cited India’s success in leveraging its youthful population as an example for Nigeria, highlighting the transformative impact of strategic investments in education, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure. He encouraged Nigeria to tap into its demographic advantage by promoting startups and small industries, which have driven Innovation and Economic Growth in India. This approach could empower Nigeria’s young population, unlocking their potential to drive Sustainable Development and global competitiveness.
India’s Investment in Nigeria’s health care, education, and technology sectors is a clear sign of the deepening partnership between the two nations. Focusing on shared priorities like affordable health care, educational opportunities, and technological development, the collaboration between India and Nigeria is laying the foundation for sustainable growth. This partnership has already contributed to economic progress and strengthened diplomatic ties. The High Commissioner’s optimism reflects a vision of a future where the relationship between the two countries continues to thrive, driven by mutual respect and shared goals.
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Ultimately, the evolving partnership between India and Nigeria highlights the power of strategic collaboration. By working together in vital sectors like health care, education, and technology, both nations are creating a framework for long-term success. This relationship has the potential to unlock significant opportunities for Nigeria, offering a model of how international partnerships can contribute to economic and social development. As this partnership deepens, it is set to serve as an example for other countries, demonstrating how shared interests can lead to tangible progress.