Malaysia at 68: Envoy Calls for Collective Global Action, Nigeria Pledges Stronger Ties

By Iyojo Ameh

Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Ayubin Omar, has stressed that the pressing challenges confronting the world today can only be solved through cooperation, fairness, and mutual understanding.

He made the remarks at a reception in Abuja to commemorate Malaysia’s 68th Independence Anniversary and the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Nigeria, attended by members of the diplomatic community, senior government officials, and business leaders.

“Global challenges whether traditional or non-traditional require global solutions. And these solutions must be pursued with sincerity, fairness, and mutual understanding,” Omar said.

Reflecting on the country’s history, the envoy recalled that Malaysia gained independence on 31st August 1957, embarking on a journey built on unity in diversity, mutual respect, and shared aspirations for peace, progress, and prosperity.

“As we commemorate 68 years of independence, we reflect not only on our past struggles and triumphs but also on the path forward a future shaped by partnership, inclusivity, and global cooperation,” he added.

Omar underlined Malaysia’s contributions to Nigeria through trade, education, cultural exchanges, and economic development. He cited the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) as a cornerstone of South-South collaboration, noting its impact in strengthening capacity and building bridges across the Global South.

He further reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to regional stability and international diplomacy, emphasizing the country’s leadership role in ASEAN and its active engagement in multilateral platforms.

This year also marks six decades of diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Malaysia. Omar described the bilateral relationship as “strong and enduring, grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to progress.”

“Today, as we look to the future, I invite Nigeria, our host government, to continue to strengthen this bond together and to foster even greater understanding between our peoples. Together, we can achieve more for the benefit of our nations,” he urged.

He reminded guests that independence comes with responsibility: “A responsibility to build a just and inclusive society, to be good neighbours, and to be active contributors to a better world.”

Delivering Nigeria’s goodwill message, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, who was represented by Ambassador Janet Olisa congratulated Malaysia on its national day and applauded six decades of fruitful relations with Nigeria.

“Within these six decades of cooperation, the strategic partnership between our two countries has grown stronger across trade, investment, education, agriculture, technology, tourism, and cultural exchanges,” Tuggar said.

He encouraged Malaysian investors to explore opportunities in Nigeria’s non-oil sector particularly infrastructure, agriculture, and technology while noting that over 3,400 Nigerian students are currently studying in Malaysia, making education a strong pillar of bilateral ties.

Tuggar praised Malaysia’s MTCP for supporting Nigerian capacity-building initiatives and suggested collaboration with Nigeria’s Technical Aid Corps Programme to strengthen research, skills exchange, and scholarship cooperation.

The minister further outlined new areas of engagement, including cybersecurity, public administration, renewable energy, digital economy, healthcare, defence industry collaboration, and food security. He confirmed Nigeria’s readiness to revive the Joint Commission of Cooperation to pave the way for fresh agreements between the two nations.

“Together, we must confront shared global challenges such as climate change, public health threats, and sustainable development. Nigeria stands ready to work hand in hand with Malaysia in multilateral forums to advance peace, security, and inclusive growth,” he affirmed.

The evening closed with cultural displays and renewed commitments from both sides. Ambassador Omar wished Nigeria and Malaysia continued prosperity, declaring:

“Happy National Day, Selamat Hari Kebangsaan, Selamat Hari Merdeka, and happy 60th anniversary Malaysia and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. May our bonds of friendship continue to flourish, and may peace and prosperity reign for all.”