Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Abuja, Nigeria, on Sunday, marking his first visit to the West African nation and becoming the first Indian PM to do so in 17 years. The visit is part of a three-nation tour that will also take him to Brazil and Guyana.

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu welcomed PM Modi at Abuja’s airport, where the Minister for Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, presented him with the ceremonial 'Key of the City' of Abuja.

Expressing gratitude, PM Modi shared on social media, “Thank you, President Tinubu, for the warm reception. I hope this visit will strengthen the friendship between our nations.” He also praised the enthusiastic welcome by the Indian community in Nigeria, calling it "heartwarming and vibrant."

In a statement before his departure, PM Modi highlighted the significance of the visit. “Nigeria is a close partner in West Africa. This trip provides an opportunity to enhance our Strategic Partnership founded on shared values of democracy and pluralism. I am also looking forward to meeting the Indian diaspora and friends in Nigeria,” he said.

The tour, spanning November 16 to 21, began with Nigeria and will continue with PM Modi’s attendance at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brazil. The visit will conclude in Guyana, where he will make the first official state visit by an Indian Prime Minister in over five decades.

PM Modi’s engagements aim to strengthen ties with key partners across Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, showcasing India’s growing global presence.