India and Nigeria, represented by National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Nuhu Ribadu, met to enhance their collaboration in combating terrorism. They identified key areas for cooperation, reaffirmed their opposition to any form of terrorism, and emphasized capacity building. The longstanding diplomatic relationship between the two countries continues to strengthen through significant economic and defense partnerships.
On November 5, 2024, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval of India and his Nigerian counterpart, Nuhu Ribadu, convened in New Delhi for the Second Strategic and Counter-Terrorism Dialogue. This meeting resulted in the identification of key collaborative areas to enhance efforts against various forms of terrorism. The discussions underscored the imperative of addressing threats related to terrorism, extremism, and radicalization, particularly in the realm of cyberspace, and included concerns about international crime, arms, and drug trafficking. The Ministry of External Affairs, India, reported that both nations firmly reiterated their stance against the justification of terrorism in any form. They agreed to bolster bilateral capacity-building efforts and to enhance their cooperation on international platforms. Notably, during this visit, Mr. Ribadu also toured the National Security Guard facilities in Manesar, reflecting the commitment to strengthen defense ties. The inception of the Strategic and Counter-Terrorism Dialogue occurred in March 2021 and signifies the growing collaboration between India and Nigeria. This year, the relationship was further emphasized through multiple high-level engagements, including a visit by India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, to Nigeria and a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the G20 Summit in September 2023. India and Nigeria share a long-standing friendship rooted in diplomatic relations that date back to the pre-independence era. The bilateral partnership was elevated to a ‘Strategic Partnership’ in 2007, with a focus on defense cooperation encompassing joint efforts in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, anti-piracy measures, and institutional exchanges. Economic ties are also robust, positioning India among Nigeria’s top five trading partners, with total bilateral trade reaching approximately USD 11.85 billion in 2022-2023. India’s developmental assistance is evident through various initiatives, notably through Lines of Credit aimed at supporting infrastructure and capacity-building projects in Nigeria. Recent agreements include funding for a gas-fired electricity generation station and solar energy initiatives, showcasing India’s commitment to fostering Nigeria’s development through strategic partnerships.
The collaboration between India and Nigeria on counter-terrorism signifies both countries’ commitment to combatting global terrorism and associated criminal activities. The strategic dialogue aims to foster cooperation in addressing radicalization and extremism, particularly in a world increasingly threatened by terrorism, both locally and transnationally. The historical relationship between these nations is characterized by active diplomatic and economic engagement, which has evolved significantly since India established its diplomatic presence in Nigeria in 1958. Through strategic partnerships and agreements, both nations are advancing not only in defense cooperation but also in mutual developmental support, thus creating a broader framework for international security and economic collaboration.
In conclusion, the Second Strategic and Counter-Terrorism Dialogue between India and Nigeria marks a significant step forward in the bilateral cooperation aimed at addressing terrorism and its related threats. With a robust framework of mutual assistance in defense and economic domains, both nations are poised to strengthen their partnership through sustained dialogue and operational cooperation. Their unwavering stance against terrorism reflects a shared commitment to global security and stability, positioning both nations as proactive partners in countering extremism and promoting development.
Original Source: www.indianewsnetwork.com
