By Nkechi Eze
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to
deepening strategic ties with the India, underscoring that the bilateral relationship must continue to be anchored on mutual respect, reciprocity and shared economic prosperity.
The assurance was given by the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during a courtesy visit by the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Abhishek Singh, in Abuja.
In an official signed statement, the Head of Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Interior, Mary Ali, disclosed that the high-level engagement focused on strengthening cooperation in migration management, correctional and fire services, as well as broader institutional capacity-building initiatives between both countries.
The Minister commended the positive contributions of the Indian community to Nigeria’s economic growth and development, noting that Nigeria remains a hospitable nation open to lawful enterprise and international collaboration. He, however, stressed that issues relating to migration data and identity management are matters of national sovereignty.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo explained that the Migration Information and Data Analysis System continues to enhance Nigeria’s migration governance architecture, ensuring transparency, accountability and improved border management in line with global standards.
On expatriate employment, the Minister clarified that the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card remains a statutory requirement under the Nigeria Immigration Service Act. He explained that while individuals under the age of 18, students and naturalised citizens are exempted, compliance with the permit regime rests squarely on employing companies.
He further emphasised that expatriate engagement in Nigeria must generate measurable value and contribute meaningfully to job creation and skills transfer for Nigerians. According to him, Nigeria cannot continue to shoulder the financial burden of repatriating foreign nationals involved in legal infractions, stressing that economic partnerships must reflect fairness and shared responsibility.
In his remarks, High Commissioner Singh expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s transparency in handling migration and consular matters, particularly in granting consular access and ensuring fair treatment of Indian nationals residing in the country.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening people-to-people relations and advancing the Nigeria–India strategic partnership through sustained dialogue, institutional cooperation and mutually beneficial economic engagement.
The Minister concluded by reiterating that the present administration remains open to constructive dialogue aimed at ensuring fairness, reciprocity and mutual economic benefit in Nigeria’s bilateral relationships, affirming that the Federal Government’s doors remain open to engagements that promote shared prosperity and respect for national sovereignty.
