Nigeria’s new High Commissioner to India assumes office

Saidu Muhammad has officially taken up his post as Nigeria's High Commissioner to India, arriving in New Delhi with his wife, Rukayya Muhammad. His assumption of duty on Thursday followed his arrival in the country.

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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.

Muhammad was welcomed at Indira Gandhi International Airport by officials from the Nigerian High Commission, representatives of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, members of the Nigerian community, and several African heads of mission. Addressing the High Commission staff and the Nigerian community, Muhammad spoke of his long-standing connection to India, recalling his first posting there as a young officer two decades ago.

He noted his subsequent returns to India for regional meetings, official engagements, and further promotion examinations in 2009, 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 stated.

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

Looking ahead, Muhammad pledged to foster an inclusive approach in his new role, aiming to strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and India. He assured embassy staff and the Nigerian community of a tenure characterized by consultation, engagement, and inclusiveness. "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.

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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.