Tinubu Sends Congratulations to India's PM on 25 Years in Leadership

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the 25th anniversary of his time in public office.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Mr Tinubu called this milestone a "historic" achievement. He said it shows the trust that the Indian people have in Mr Modi as their leader.

"On behalf of the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and on my own behalf, I extend warm and fraternal congratulations to His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of the Republic of India, on a truly historic milestone," Mr Tinubu stated.

Mr Modi first took office as Chief Minister of Gujarat in 2001 and held that role for over 12 years before becoming Prime Minister of India in 2014.

Mr Tinubu pointed out that continuous years of public leadership is a rare thing in a democracy, especially in India, which is the world’s most populated nation. He praised Mr Modi’s leadership, mentioning progress in infrastructure, digital public goods, financial inclusion, and innovation.

"Across these 25 years, Prime Minister Modi has led with vision and an unwavering commitment to development," Mr Tinubu said.

He noted that Mr Modi’s leadership helped change Gujarat and contributed to India becoming one of the world's largest and fastest-growing economies. "India’s emergence as one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies, his leadership in infrastructure, digital public goods, financial inclusion and innovation has lifted millions and inspired nations across the Global South," he added.

Mr Tinubu also spoke about the relationship between Nigeria and India, calling both countries "great nations" and important voices of the Global South. He remembered Mr Modi’s visit to Nigeria in November 2024, during which Nigeria honored him with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON).

"That visit gave fresh impetus to our cooperation in trade and investment, energy, defence and security, health, education, and technology," he said.

He emphasized that Nigeria values its "strategic partnership" with India. "As fellow democracies and leading voices of the Global South, Nigeria and India share a common commitment to a fairer, more inclusive and more representative International order."

"I remain confident that, under his continued leadership, the bonds of friendship between our peoples will grow ever stronger," he concluded.