By Gabriel Ameh
Abuja — Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Ayubin Omar, has urged the international community to embrace fairness, sincerity, and mutual understanding in tackling global challenges, noting that both traditional and emerging threats require collective solutions.
The envoy made the call in Abuja during a reception marking Malaysia’s 68th National Day and the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Nigeria.
Reflecting on Malaysia’s journey since independence in 1957, Ambassador Omar said the nation has remained committed to unity in diversity, mutual respect, and shared aspirations for peace and prosperity.
“This year, as we commemorate 68 years of independence, we reflect not only on our past struggles and triumphs but also on the path forward to a future shaped by partnership, inclusivity, and global cooperation,” he said.
He highlighted Malaysia’s longstanding partnership with Nigeria under the South-South Cooperation framework, particularly through the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP), which has advanced trade, education, cultural exchange, and capacity building across the Global South.
Reaffirming Malaysia’s foreign policy direction, Omar stressed the country’s commitment to dialogue and cooperation, citing Malaysia’s current chairmanship of ASEAN and its active role in multilateral forums.
“Independence is not a destination it is a responsibility. A responsibility to build a just and inclusive society, to be good neighbours, and to contribute actively to a better world,” he added.
Delivering Nigeria’s goodwill message, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, represented by Ambassador Janet Olisa, congratulated Malaysia on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government, and the people of Nigeria. He praised Malaysia’s resilience and progress since independence while commending six decades of robust diplomatic relations.
Tuggar emphasized the diverse areas of cooperation between the two nations from trade and agriculture to technology, tourism, and education. He noted that over 3,400 Nigerian students are currently studying in Malaysia, further strengthening people-to-people ties.
He also called for greater collaboration in priority sectors such as renewable energy, digital economy, healthcare, food security, defence industry partnerships, and cybersecurity. The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to revive the dormant Joint Commission of Cooperation and deepen ties through new agreements, scholarships, and knowledge transfer programmes.
“Together, we must confront shared global challenges such as climate change, public health threats, and the pursuit of sustainable development. Nigeria stands ready to work hand in hand with Malaysia in multilateral forums to advance peace, security, and inclusive growth,” Tuggar said.
The reception featured cultural performances, goodwill messages, and renewed commitments to deepen cooperation across sectors. Guests celebrated with optimism as both nations reaffirmed their shared vision of stronger bilateral relations.
“Happy National Day, Selamat Hari Kebangsaan, Selamat Hari Merdeka, and happy 60th anniversary of Malaysia–Nigeria diplomatic ties,” Ambassador Omar declared, closing the evening on a note of hope and unity.
