Nigerians Embracing Hindi and Yoga Due To Its Rising Popularity Here: PM Modi Tells Indian Diaspora

Abuja: Prime Minister Narendra Modi dressed Indian diaspora in Nigeria on Sunday during first leg of his three-nation visit.

Prime Minister Modi mentioned historical importance of relationship between two countries in matters of culture, economy, and role played by Indian diaspora in growth of Nigeria.

He began his speech with ‘Sannu, Nigeria’ which means Hello, used as a tritional greeting in Nigeran trition.

Hindi and Yoga Gaining Popularity In Nigeria

On occasion, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that both Hindi and Yoga are growing in popularity in Nigeria, with Nigerian citizens showing a strong interest in both.

“Yoga is getting popular in Nigeria, it seems you are not practicing Yoga, but Nigerians are definitely practicing it…Hindi is also getting popular in Nigeria. youth in Nigeria, especially in Kano (state) are learning Hindi,” Prime Minister told Indian Diaspora.

PM Modi Recalls Nigeria’s Role In Indian Freedom Struggle

Prime Minister said that both India and Nigeria inspired each or during ir respective freedom movements.

“Nigerian people left no stone unturned for India’s independence movement. After India attained independence, it inspired Nigeria’s freedom struggle,” he said.

‘Indians Have Played Key Role In Boosting Nigeria’s Economy’

Prime Minister recalled role played by Indian businessman Kishinchand Chellaram ji who operated a global tring network, K. Chellaram & Sons.

“Before India's independence, Kishinchand Chellaram ji visited Nigeria, and at that time, no one could have predicted that his company would grow into one of largest businesses in Nigeria. Indian diaspora has played a significant role in boosting Nigeria’s economy…In almost every household here, people here enjoy Tolaram Noodles with great enthusiasm,” he said.

‘India a Mor of Democracy, Nigeria Biggest Democracy of Africa’

Remembering Mahatma Gandhi’s time in Africa, Prime Minister said, “India lived in Africa for a significant period, during which he shared joys and sorrows of its people. During time of slavery, both people of India and Nigeria tirelessly pursued ir quest for freedom. When India gained independence, it also inspired freedom movement in Nigeria.”

“Today, India and Nigeria continue to move forward toger as partners, reflecting bond forged during ir struggles. While India is mor of democracy, Nigeria is biggest democracy in Africa. We both have commonality of democracy, diversity, and energy of demography,” he ded. 

PM Modi Invites Indian Diaspora To Visit India for Mahakumbh Mela

Prime Minister invited Indian diaspora to visit India for upcoming religious, and or cultural events lined up in early months of 2025.

“Come with your Nigerian friends…Next year many festivals and events are coming. January 26 is Republic Day , re will be Pravasiya Bhartiya Divas in second week of January which will be celebrated in land of Lord Jagannath in Odisha . From January 13 to February 26, re will be Mahakumbh in Prayagraj. re are so many to reasons for you to come here. You can also go to visit Ram Temple in Ayodhya which is near Prayagraj…Varanasi is also not far away,” PM said.

“This will be a memorable trip for you,” he ded.

Nigerians Between Age 40-60 Must Have Been Taught By Indian Teacher at Some Point

“ Indian diaspora has been part of both joyful and challenging times in Nigeria. It's likely that Nigerians between ages of 40 and 60 have, at some point, been taught by an Indian teacher here,” he said.

After receiving Nigeria's highest national honor, Grand Commander of Order of Niger, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that recognition would inspire him to furr strengn and elevate India-Nigeria strategic partnership to new levels.