Nigeria’s new High Commissioner to India, Ambassador Saidu Dahiru Muhammad, has officially assumed office in New Delhi, pledging to strengthen diplomatic relations and expand trade and investment between both countries.
Muhammad formally resumed duty on Thursday after arriving in India with his wife, Rukayya Muhammad, where he was received at the Indira Gandhi International Airport by officials of the Nigerian High Commission, representatives of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, members of the Nigerian community and African heads of mission.
Addressing embassy staff and members of the Nigerian community, the ambassador reflected on his long association with India, recalling his first visit nearly two decades ago as a young foreign service officer.
He said he had returned to India several times for official assignments before eventually assuming office as Nigeria’s substantive High Commissioner.
Muhammad assured staff and Nigerians living in India that his leadership would be guided by inclusiveness, professionalism and collaboration.
“The only thing I can say to you is that I can assure you that nobody is going to be left out in terms of working relationship,” he said.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Nigeria-India relations, particularly in trade and investment, while working to secure greater economic opportunities for Nigeria.
The envoy encouraged Nigerians in India to remain optimistic and believe in their potential, noting that success often depends on one’s mindset and determination.
Welcoming the ambassador, President of the All India Nigeria-India Students and Community Association, Hilary Okeke, said members of the Nigerian community had eagerly anticipated his arrival.
He also praised officials of the Nigerian High Commission for their continued support to Nigerians living and studying in India.
Nigeria and India have enjoyed longstanding diplomatic relations, with cooperation spanning trade, education, healthcare, technology and investment.
