Nigeria’s new High Commissioner begins diplomatic mission in India

Nigeria’s newly appointed High Commissioner to India, Ambassador Saidu Muhammad, has formally taken up his diplomatic assignment in New Delhi, promising an inclusive style of leadership and renewed efforts to deepen bilateral relations between both countries.

Muhammad officially assumed office on Thursday, shortly after arriving in India with his wife, Rukayya Muhammad.

A statement released on Saturday said the envoy 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 ambassadors accredited to India.

Addressing staff of the High Commission and Nigerians resident in India after taking office, Muhammad reflected on his long association with the Asian nation, describing his appointment as the fulfilment of a journey that began two decades ago.

“Twenty years ago I was here as a young officer writing for my first promotion exams overseas, which I am happy again to have come back for the second time in 2009 again for another promotion exam,” he said.

The ambassador recalled making several official visits to India over the years for regional engagements, including the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System verification exercise and promotion examinations held in 2010, 2012 and 2015.

“And today, by the special grace of Almighty Allah, I have assumed duty here as substantive Nigerian High Commissioner to the Republic of India,” he said.

Muhammad assured officials of the Nigerian mission and members of the diaspora that his administration would encourage teamwork and broad participation.

“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.

Drawing inspiration from a statement often made by former President Muhammadu Buhari, whom he described as a late mentor and father figure, the envoy said he belonged to everybody and to nobody, stressing that fairness and the demands of each situation would guide his decisions.

He also encouraged Nigerians living in India to remain optimistic and confident, noting that success is often shaped by one’s attitude and mindset.

Muhammad reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and India, with particular emphasis on expanding trade and investment opportunities in ways that would deliver greater benefits for Nigeria.

The President of the All India Nigeria-India Students and Community Association, Hilary Okeke, welcomed the ambassador on behalf of Nigerians in the country.

Okeke said the community had eagerly awaited the envoy’s arrival and expressed confidence that his tenure would be beneficial to Nigerians residing and studying in India.

He also praised officials of the Nigerian High Commission for their consistent support, saying the mission had remained accessible and responsive to the needs of Nigerians in the country.