November 16, 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a significant five-day diplomatic tour, marking his first official visit to Nigeria in 17 years, and his first to Guyana in over five decades. His trip, which will also take him to Brazil for the 19th G20 Summit, is expected to further strengthen India’s international partnerships and expand its influence across the global stage.

PM Modi’s visit begins with a two-day stay in Nigeria, at the invitation of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The visit holds historical importance, as it marks the first time in nearly two decades that an Indian Prime Minister has visited the West African nation, underscoring the growing significance of India-Nigeria relations.

In his departure statement, PM Modi emphasized the importance of his visit, saying, “This will be my first visit to Nigeria, our close partner in the West African region. It will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership based on a shared belief in democracy and pluralism. I eagerly look forward to meeting the Indian community in Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi.”

India and Nigeria have enjoyed a strong partnership since 2007, with cooperation spanning multiple sectors, including economic, energy, and defence. More than 200 Indian companies have invested over $27 billion in Nigeria, particularly in key industries such as energy and telecommunications. During his visit, PM Modi will seek to strengthen these ties further, exploring new avenues for collaboration while addressing the Indian diaspora in Nigeria.

Following his time in Nigeria, PM Modi will travel to Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro to attend the highly anticipated 19th G20 Summit, scheduled for November 18. As part of the G20 Troika, alongside Brazil and South Africa, India’s Prime Minister will share his perspectives on global issues and work to build on the outcomes of India’s successful presidency of the G20 in 2023. His focus will be on promoting the vision of "One Earth, One Family, One Future" and advancing the priorities of the Global South.

PM Modi remarked ahead of the summit, “In Brazil, I will attend the 19th G20 Summit as a Troika member. Last year, India’s successful presidency elevated the G20 to a people’s G20 and mainstreamed the priorities of the Global South. This year, Brazil has built upon India’s legacy. I look forward to meaningful discussions in line with our shared global vision.”

At the summit, PM Modi will engage in high-level discussions with global leaders and contribute to shaping key decisions on climate change, global health, economic recovery, and other pressing global challenges. He will also use the occasion to meet with fellow leaders in bilateral discussions on various areas of mutual interest.

The final leg of PM Modi’s tour will take him to Guyana, a visit that is historic in its own right as it marks the first Indian Prime Minister’s visit to the South American nation in more than 50 years. While specific details of his engagements in Guyana are yet to be fully disclosed, the visit is expected to focus on strengthening ties in sectors such as energy, trade, and cultural exchange.

Throughout the trip, PM Modi is expected to interact with the Indian diaspora in all three countries, reaffirming India’s growing influence on the world stage and underscoring its commitment to fostering stronger global partnerships.