By Ameh Gabriel
Abuja, Nigeria – Bilateral trade between Vietnam and Nigeria surged to a historic $1 billion in 2024, marking a key milestone in diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations. This was disclosed by the Ambassador of Vietnam to Nigeria, Mr. Bui Quoc Hung, during a roundtable discussion in Abuja commemorating the 135th birth anniversary of Vietnamese revolutionary leader, President Ho Chi Minh.
Describing the trade volume as “a strong signal of a growing partnership,” Mr. Hung called for expanded collaboration beyond commerce into agriculture, education, industrial development, and people-to-people exchanges.
“Last year was the first time we recorded a trade volume of one billion US dollars between Vietnam and Nigeria,” the envoy said. “Before now, it hovered around $500 to $600 million. This shows we’re moving in the right direction, but there’s still a lot more we can do together.”
He emphasized that Nigeria and Vietnam must now embrace more open-door policies that promote investment, skills development, and sustainable growth. “Vietnam’s transformation from a war-torn nation to an emerging economic power began when we opened up our economy in the 1990s, joined ASEAN and the WTO, and prioritized domestic industrial development particularly in agriculture,” he noted.
Vietnam’s Rise from War to Prosperity: A Lesson for Nigeria
Responding to a question from a journalist on what lessons Nigeria could draw from Vietnam’s post-war rise, Mr. Hung offered a pointed reflection.
“Our recovery was not easy. We emerged from decades of war, poverty, and international isolation. But we embraced unity, invested in our people, opened up to global partnerships, and committed to long-term reforms,” he said. “Nigeria, too, has enormous human and natural resources. What’s needed is national consensus on the kind of future it wants and the discipline and leadership to pursue that vision consistently.”
He added that Nigeria must prioritize inclusive growth and political stability to build investor confidence. “Like Vietnam, Nigeria can lift millions out of poverty through reforms in agriculture, education, and local manufacturing combined with a clear anti-corruption stance and patriotic governance.”
Educational Exchange and Youth Empowerment
On educational exchange, Mr. Hung noted that while the Vietnamese government currently offers no official scholarships to Nigerian students, private universities have stepped in with full and partial scholarships. “There are hundreds of Nigerian students now studying in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. We welcome young, talented Nigerians and hope they return to contribute to their country’s growth.”
Drawing a parallel with Vietnam’s founding father, he said, “President Ho Chi Minh spent 30 years abroad learning and building networks before returning to lead Vietnam’s independence movement. Nigerian students can draw inspiration from that study abroad, then return home equipped to make an impact.”
Ho Chi Minh’s Legacy Still Resonates
Mr. Hung also reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to the enduring leadership principles of Ho Chi Minh, which he said continue to shape the country’s domestic and foreign policies.
“Internally, we remain committed to the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam, which has provided the political stability needed for economic progress,” he said. “But just as importantly, we follow the people-centered philosophy of Ho Chi Minh—where leaders serve the people, live modestly, and foster unity.”
He highlighted that Vietnam’s diplomacy has evolved to include strong partnerships even with former adversaries. “We now enjoy relations with all five permanent members of the UN Security Council. Our approach has been guided by pragmatism, mutual respect, and a desire for peace and development.”
Nigeria Commends Vietnam’s Model
Also speaking at the event, Mohammed Haidara, Deputy Director of the Asia and Pacific Division at Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, praised Vietnam as a country whose post-war transformation offers valuable lessons for Nigeria.
“Nigeria can learn a great deal from Vietnam’s developmental journey and the legacy of President Ho Chi Minh,” he said. “At a time when our country needs national unity, inspired leadership, and a strong sense of direction, Vietnam offers an example of what is possible when vision and discipline align.”
Towards 50 Years of Friendship
As both nations prepare to mark 50 years of diplomatic ties in 2026, Ambassador Hung expressed optimism about a new era of Vietnam-Nigeria relations.
“Our partnership is entering a new chapter one that should be defined by innovation, economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and shared prosperity,” he said.
The roundtable, attended by diplomats, scholars, government officials, and members of both the Nigerian and Vietnamese communities, served as a platform to celebrate Ho Chi Minh’s legacy and explore practical pathways to deepen Vietnam-Nigeria relations for sustainable development.
