Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has extended warm congratulations to His Excellency Bùi Thanh Sơn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, as the nation commemorates its 80th Independence Anniversary, reaffirming his country's readiness to deepen it's over 40 years bilateral relations dating back to 1976.
Nigeria said that this anniversary stands as a testament to the resilience, unity, and determination of the Vietnamese people in their pursuit of sovereignty, peace, and national development.
A statement by the Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa on Tuesday said both countries' relations have since been fostered by collaboration in trade, agriculture, investment, education, and multilateral engagements.
"Nigeria joins Vietnam in celebrating this historic occasion, underscoring the shared values of freedom, progress, and international cooperation.
"Nigeria and Vietnam have maintained cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic relations in the year 1976 during Vietnam’s struggle for reunification and reinforced with diplomatic presence in each other’s capital in 2007. Vietnam remains a key trade partner of Nigeria and the current volume of trade between both countries is about $1 billion, as of the last quarter of 2024."
Both countries also work closely within the United Nations and other international platforms to advance global peace, sustainable development, and South-South cooperation.
"Therefore, on this auspicious occasion, Nigeria reaffirms its readiness to deepen bilateral relations with Vietnam, explore new areas of partnership, and promote greater people-to-people ties for the mutual benefit of both nations.
"We wish the Government and people of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, peace, prosperity and progress and Nigeria’s continuing friendship and support."