Consul General of India, Chandramouli Kern, has said his country’s investment in Nigeria is worth over $27 billion with more than 200 companies in operation.

He noted that India is one of the largest trading partners and biggest importer of Nigeria’s crude oil and natural gas, while Nigeria is also a net importer of Indian rice and pharmaceuticals.

The Consul General disclosed this on the sidelines of a yearly prayer event, tagged ‘Mata ka Jagran’, organised by the Shan E Punjab Association of Nigeria (SPAN) in Lagos, recently.

He restated commitment to boosting cultural and economic relations between both countries. He said this is vital considering similarities in cultural and religious beliefs.

Kern further commended Indian companies in Nigeria for creating employment opportunities for youths.

President of SPAN, Mr. Narindera Chugh, described Nigeria as the best kept secret in the world, saying it has lots of economic potentials both nations can explore.

“I feel there are a lot of similarities between both countries as they have lots to gain as far as culture and economics are concerned. I believe there is a lot for both countries to gain from this prayer event,” he said.

“Nigeria is the best kept secret of the world, I enjoy the wonderful people here, the beauty in Lagos and outside Lagos and I feel that there is a lot Nigeria has to do to grow more and I also believe in the potentials of the people and resources. I believe there is a lot Nigeria can do for the world,” he averred.

On his part, the Vice President, SPAN, Dr. Grover, said the prayer service is an annual annual prayer service event organised before celebrating one of the major religious festivals in Hinduism, called Divali where it brings in the Chief Priest and some artistes in India to pray and recite hymns.

“Lots of food would be served for the whole entire community. Lot of people would be attending this programme and we also have officials from the Lagos State government, Ministry of culture and some Nigerian sponsors who have sponsored this event.

“This event is beneficial for both of the countries because India and Nigeria have a strong cordial relationship so the prayer service is for the goodwill of Nigeria, Nigerian people and the Nigerian Indian community,” he added.

“There are lots of similarities between Nigeria and India, because they are both God fearing countries and also believe in the power of prayers and that is why we are organising this service for peace, happiness, security and prosperity of both countries,” he said.