By Ameh Gabriel
Abuja, April 29, 2025: Vietnam’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Bui Quoc Hung, has said Vietnam remains a beacon of peace and security in Southeast Asia and the world as the country marks the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification Day, celebrated annually on April 30.
Ambassador Bui stated that “during the struggle for independence and reunification, they held firmly to the belief that national unity was our greatest strength. ‘Vietnam is one, Vietnamese are one people’ is not just a slogan, it is a reflection of our shared identity and unwavering resilience as a nation.”
He said the slogan reflects Vietnam’s strong national identity and unity, which have underpinned the country’s sustained development since reunification in 1975.
Hung made this known during a media interaction in Abuja, where he described Vietnam as a peaceful, stable, and investor-friendly nation that continues to attract global attention.
“Vietnam is one of the most peaceful countries in Southeast Asia and the world,” the envoy said. “We have no terrorism, no banditry, no kidnapping. Our streets are safe, our institutions are stable, and our society is peaceful. These are essential conditions for business to thrive.”
Mr. Bui pointed out the role of the Communist Party of Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh, which he described as critical in mobilizing public consensus and supporting national development efforts. He also cited Ho Chi Minh as a model of post-war transformation and a major driver of Vietnam’s economic growth.
The Ambassador further revealed that the bilateral trade volume of Vietnam hit $1 billion in a single year in 2024 and expressed optimism about stronger cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.
He, however, urged the Nigerian government to address its security challenges to foster greater investor confidence.
“Nigeria has great potential,” he said. “But to attract more investment, it must continue to improve its security architecture. Peace and safety are essential for economic progress.”
The Ambassador encouraged Nigerian investors, tourists, and entrepreneurs to explore Vietnam’s economic and cultural opportunities, while reaffirming Vietnam’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with Nigeria
The ambassador stated the important role of the Communist Party of Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh in maintaining national cohesion. According to him, after the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975, marking the reunification of Vietnam, the city was renamed Ho Chi Minh City in honor of the revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh.
He added that Ho Chi Minh City is the economic engine of Vietnam, contributing a large share of the country’s GDP.
He described the National Unity Front as a unifying socio-political organization that rallies the support of the Vietnamese people towards national development. Ho Chi Minh, named after the revolutionary leader, continues to be the economic and cultural engine of the country, driving innovation and modernization.
He stated that Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and serves as its economic and financial hub. Located in the southern part of the country along the Saigon River, it is a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant energy, rich history, and dynamic culture and known for its diverse street food, including pho, banh mi, and fresh seafood.
The ambassador revealed that the anniversary would be celebrated across Vietnam with art performances, flag salutes, speeches by party and state leaders, war veterans, and the young generation; balloon and dove releases; military parades; cultural exhibitions; and memorial services to honor the millions of lives lost during the protracted war.
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon and the focal point of reunification, will host the largest parade and remembrance ceremonies. He said.
