No fewer than 135 Indian companies are currently operating in the Nigeria, Mr. Shri Balasubramanian, the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria has said.
Balasubramanian said the companies’ investment in Nigeria is in the region of $20 billion.
The High Commissioner spoke in Abuja on Wednesday during a visit to the Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
The Indian Envoy also expressed his eagerness to collaborate with the Commission to successfully share the Indian diaspora experience, adding that the diaspora is a very positive force to India’s development.
He stated further that more than 60,000 Indians have made Nigeria their homes across the 36 states of the country, and a larger number residing in Lagos.
A statement issued at the end of the visit and signed by Gabriel Odu, Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Unit, NiDOM reads in part: “The Indian High Commissioner added that the relationship between both countries has remained robust and cordial even before Nigeria got her independence, stressing that there are more than 135 Indian companies in Nigeria and nearly 20 billion dollars worth of investment generated in Nigeria.
“The High Commissioner stated that continuity and change is a part of life for Indians while collaboration is a great step to the development of India and Nigeria.
” He added that three to four generations of Indians are in Nigeria and are settling well into the system.”
Responding, Dabiri-Erewa assured the envoy that this new engagement will enhance socio-cultural exchanges and fast track development of the two countries.
While welcoming the idea of the partnership and collaboration, NiDCOM Chairman said “life is about learning, as long as you are a human being, you should always be ready to learn”, adding that there is a lot to draw from India and her Diaspora.
