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PM Modi also thanked the people of Nigeria for a rousing welcome and bestowing him with the country’s second-highest civilian honour.
PM Modi addressing the Indian diaspora in Nigeria during the first part of his three-nation visit.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the Indian community in Nigeria during the first leg of his three-nation visit, beginning his speech with ‘Sannu, Nigeria’, which translates to the traditional Nigerian greeting of “Hello”.
“Your affection is a big source of capital for me. To visit you, to spend time with you – I will cherish these moments for all my life. This is my first visit to Nigeria as a Prime Minister, but I haven’t come alone, I have brought the fragrance of the Indian soil and lots of blessings from Indians,” the Prime Minister said at the event.
“Every Indian citizen is proud of your accomplishments. Mera to 56 hojata hai. (My chest swells by 56 inches in pride). I thank the president and the people of Nigeria – the kind of welcome that I have received is incredible. President Tinubu honoured me with Nigeria’s National award today. It is not an honour for Modi but crores of Indians,” the PM added amid chants of “Modi-Modi” and “Bharat Mata ki Jai”.
PM Modi Highlights Role Of Indians In Nigeria
PM Modi shone the spotlight on the role of the Indian diaspora in the development of Nigeria. “You have not only given your hard work and determination, but also your hearts. Nigeria’s Indian community has been a companion in all highs and lows of Nigeria,” he said.
“Those who are in their 40s or 60s in Nigeria – you will find many of them have been taught by an Indian teacher. There are several Indian doctors who serve the Nigerian people. Many Indians in Nigeria have established their businesses and have contributed to the development of Nigeria,” Modi further said.
He also cited Tolaram’s Noodles and the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation as examples of how Indians have positively contributed to Nigeria. “This is the power and values of India. We may go to different country, but we never forget our traditions. For us, the world is like our family,” he added.
‘Hindi Gaining Popularity In Nigeria’: PM Modi
While making a light-hearted remark on the community watching Indian news, Prime Minister Modi said the Hindi language is rapidly gaining popularity in Nigeria. “The youth of Nigeria, especially in Kano (state) are learning Hindi… A friendship with Indian films is obvious… People remember the names of all Indian movies and actors,” he mentioned.
He also remarked that India and Nigeria are progressing together like companions from their period of struggle against colonial rule. “India is the mother of democracy, and Nigeria is the biggest democracy in Africa. We both have similarities in democracy, diversity and the energy of demography.”
“When India became independent, there were several challenges. Our ancestors worked hard to deal with those challenges. Today, the world is talking about India’s progress… We are all proud of India’s accomplishments,” he added.
