India-Nigeria Strategic Dialogue: Deepening Ties through Maritime Security and Digital Cooperation

Maritime security emerged as another critical area of focus, particularly regarding the Gulf of Guinea. This region is vital for global energy supplies but remains plagued by piracy and armed robbery at sea. India’s commitment to ensuring stability here aligns with its broader maritime vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). Collaborative efforts in patrolling and intelligence sharing are expected to secure trade routes that are essential for both nations, especially given Nigeria's role as a major oil supplier to India. Furthermore, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism. As Nigeria faces challenges from extremist groups and India continues to advocate for a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT), the dialogue emphasized the need for a unified global response and enhanced bilateral intelligence cooperation. UPSC Relevance: This development is highly relevant for GS Paper II regarding India’s bilateral ties with African nations and its leadership in the Global South. It also touches upon GS Paper III concerning maritime security in the Atlantic and the export of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure as a tool of soft power and technology-led diplomacy.