Nigeria’s newly appointed High Commissioner to India, Ambassador Saidu Dahiru Muhammad, has officially assumed office in New Delhi, marking the beginning of his diplomatic mission to strengthen bilateral relations between both countries.
The envoy arrived in India alongside his wife, Rukayya Muhammad, where they were warmly received by officials of the Nigerian High Commission, representatives of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, members of the Nigerian community, and African heads of mission accredited to India.
Speaking during his official assumption of office, Ambassador Muhammad pledged to lead an open and inclusive diplomatic mission. He assured staff of the Nigerian High Commission and Nigerians residing in India that he would prioritize consultation, teamwork, and continuous engagement throughout his tenure.
According to the new High Commissioner, fostering a strong working relationship with embassy staff and the Nigerian diaspora will be essential to achieving the mission’s objectives and advancing Nigeria’s interests in India.
Ambassador Muhammad also reaffirmed his commitment to deepening the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and India, with a particular focus on expanding trade, investment, economic cooperation, education, technology, and other mutually beneficial sectors.
He stressed the need to attract more investments into Nigeria while promoting stronger commercial ties that would deliver greater economic benefits and help achieve a more balanced trade relationship between the two countries.
Reflecting on his appointment, the envoy described his posting as a return to a familiar environment. He noted that he had visited India on several official assignments in the past and expressed confidence that his previous engagements would help him build stronger diplomatic and economic partnerships.
Welcoming the new High Commissioner, the President of the All India Nigeria-India Students and Community Association, Hilary Okeke, congratulated Ambassador Muhammad on behalf of Nigerians and Nigerian students living across India.
Okeke expressed optimism that the envoy’s leadership would further strengthen the relationship between the Nigerian High Commission and the Nigerian community. He also commended the High Commission for its continued support and welfare initiatives for Nigerians residing in India.
Nigeria and India have maintained cordial diplomatic relations for decades, with cooperation spanning trade, healthcare, education, energy, defence, and information technology. Ambassador Muhammad’s appointment is expected to further enhance these partnerships while creating new opportunities for economic growth and bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
