The High Commissioner of Malaysia to Nigeria, Aiyub Omar, has reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding partnership with Nigeria in the areas of palm oil trade, education, security, and South-South cooperation.

Mr Omar said this at a reception in Abuja to mark Malaysia’s 68th National Day and the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

He described Nigeria as a “friend and partner” with whom Malaysia has built a six-decade history of mutual respect and collaboration.

“It is my distinct honour and pleasure to address you on this momentous occasion of Malaysia’s National Day,” he said.

“Over the past six decades, our two nations have built a strong and enduring partnership grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to progress. Together, we can achieve more for the benefit of our nations,” he said.

Mr Omar emphasised the central role of palm oil in the bilateral trade between both countries, noting that cooperation in agriculture, cultural exchanges, and education continues to deepen.

He added that Malaysia, under the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP), has consistently supported Nigeria in human capital development, helping to “build bridges across borders.”

“As we celebrate 68 years of independence, Malaysia reaffirms its resolute commitment to peaceful coexistence, regional stability, and international diplomacy

“We remain advocates of dialogue over division, of cooperation over confrontation,” he said.

Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s minister of foreign affairs, congratulated Malaysia and acknowledged its remarkable progress since independence.

Mr Tuggar, represented by Janet Olisa, director of regions at the ministry, said that Nigeria values its strategic partnership with Malaysia, which has extended across trade, agriculture, technology, education, and cultural ties.

“Within these six decades of our bilateral cooperation, it is worth mentioning that the strategic partnership between our two countries has also grown stronger across diverse sectors,” Ms Olisa noted.

She also disclosed that more than 3,400 Nigerians are currently enrolled in Malaysian universities, describing Malaysia as a hub for higher education in Asia.

She also commended Malaysia for its continued support in capacity building under the MTCP, which has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s development.

Ms Olisa stressed that the relationship between both countries must now expand into new areas, particularly the non-oil sector, renewable energy, cybersecurity, and the digital economy.

“There is a need for both countries to explore the untapped rich areas of mutual interest and expand the frontiers of their relations,” she said.

She further revealed that Nigeria is working to revive its long-dormant joint commission with Malaysia in order to sign fresh agreements and strengthen bilateral consultations.

“Our focus should also include cybersecurity, public administration and sustainable development.

Defence industry collaboration is another area of focus, with Malaysia and Nigeria exploring opportunities for technology transfer and joint production,” she added.

The event also featured a display of Malaysian traditions. 

(NAN)