Chandramouli Kern, Consul General of India in Lagos, stated this during a media interaction following the inauguration of the India Trade Expo 2025.
He highlighted that the initiative would enhance trade and contribute positively to the economic growth of both nations.
“Today, we inaugurated the first edition of the India Trade Expo 2025, which has the potential to grow into a key event on the trade calendar.
“It will become an event that participants anticipate and one that businesses and policymakers alike would not want to miss.
“I must say that India and Nigeria share excellent relations across political, economic, trade, cultural, and people-to-people spheres.
“India established its diplomatic presence in Lagos in November 1958, two years before Nigeria’s independence on Oct. 1, 1960, demonstrating our long-standing commitment,” he said.
He emphasised India’s dedication to supporting Nigeria’s development goals, noting India ranks among Nigeria’s top five trading partners.
He stressed the importance of exploring new opportunities in trade and economics, stating the Expo would play a vital role in this.
“The aim behind curating the India Trade Expo 2025 is to bring Indian-origin companies together to engage with Nigeria’s government and other sectors for mutual prosperity.
“The Expo intends to showcase Indian companies’ contributions to Nigeria’s economy and further strengthen bilateral trade and economic ties between both countries.
“It will harness opportunities from the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA); thus, Indian companies must focus on Africa, especially Nigeria.
“I am confident that the India Trade Expo 2025 will unlock new areas of cooperation for the benefit of both nations,” he said.
The Consul General expressed gratitude to Nigeria for hosting 50,000 Indian expatriates whose success contributes to the country’s growth.
He noted Indian companies in Nigeria significantly empower the economy and are the second largest employers after the Federal Government.
