The Malaysian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Aiyub Omar, has disclosed that Nigeria is Malaysia’s 37th trading partner, with total bilateral trade valued at USD 956 million in 2023.
In his speech at the 67th Independence Day and 61st Malaysia Day celebration in Abuja, the envoy also called for stronger bilateral relations with Nigeria, highlighting Malaysia’s remarkable progress since gaining independence in 1957.
Omar stated, “From humble beginnings, Malaysia has diversified its economy, harnessed its natural resources, and achieved remarkable milestones. We have shifted our economy from agriculture and commodities to robust manufacturing and service sectors, becoming a major global player.”
He emphasized Malaysia’s strong bilateral relations with Nigeria, citing trade, education, and people-to-people contact as key areas of cooperation. “We are committed to strengthening our ties with Nigeria, exploring new areas of cooperation, and promoting mutual understanding,” Ambassador Omar added.
The ambassador also highlighted Malaysia’s contribution to Nigeria’s development through technical assistance and expertise. “Under the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP), 560 Nigerian officials have benefited from various technical courses since 1981. We remain committed to supporting Nigeria’s development,” he said.
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As Malaysia prepares to chair ASEAN in 2025, Ambassador Omar expressed optimism about the country’s role in promoting regional cooperation. “Malaysia is committed to achieving the ASEAN Community Vision 2045. We will work closely with Nigeria and other partner countries to promote economic growth, peace, and stability,” he said.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, stated that the celebration day commemorates the unity, resilience, and remarkable progress of the Malaysian people. Tuggar, who was represented by the Director of Asia and Pacific, Ambassador Misturah Abdurrahim, noted that Nigeria and Malaysia have shared a long-standing relationship built on mutual respect, shared aspirations, and common interests.
“Our diplomatic ties have been strong for decades, with cooperation in sectors such as trade, education, and technology. A notable example of our collaboration is the technology platform that facilitates critical exchanges in technology transfer, capacity building, and innovation.”
“By leveraging Malaysia’s advancements in ICT, digital innovation, and sustainable development, alongside Nigeria’s dynamic oil markets, we create opportunities for our people and economies. We also see productive collaborations in agriculture, where Malaysia’s expertise in palm oil production has inspired Nigeria’s development efforts. There are vast opportunities to explore synergies in industries like bioenergy and psychology.”
“We admire Malaysia’s achievements and seek to enhance our bilateral relations for the benefit of our nations. This occasion reminds us to unite for progress and collaboration. I am confident that the future of Nigeria-Malaysia relations will continue to strengthen, leading to greater heights,” he added.