Following the visit of the High Commissioner of India to Nigeria, Mr. Abhay Thaku, at the State House, Abuja, today Thursday, President Muhammadu Buhari, while receiving Letters of Credence from the High Commissioner Thakur, called for a closer and stronger partnership that will be mutually beneficial to the citizens.

President Buhari said that Nigeria has enjoyed a steadily growing and economically rewarding relationship with the Republic of India, describing the country as “Nigeria’s biggest trade partner.’’ He said, “Our two countries are very close. India has helped Nigeria in many ways, and we are very grateful. In trade, you are, today, our biggest customer in crude oil purchase.”

Reports from the Vanguard said that President Buhari Recalled his experience at Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, India, in 1973,  noted that Nigeria’s relationship with India has been long and upwardly rewarding for individuals, institutions and the country. “I want you to maintain the standard we have attained, and improve on it,’’ President Buhari told the High Commissioner,

In his submission, the High Commissioner for India listed some areas of bilateral interest that deserved more attention. Thakur said India will continue to stand with Nigeria “shoulder to shoulder in all areas of mutual interest, including security’”. He assured the President that he will work hard in encouraging meetings that will focus on reducing double taxation so as to attract more Foreign Direct Investments, and actualize Nigerian airline, Air Peace’s dream of two weekly flights to Bombay and open up the visa regime more.