By Ameh Gabriel
The Embassy of Vietnam in Nigeria on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, hosted a grand reception in Abuja to mark the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day. The event drew senior Nigerian officials, diplomats, business leaders, and members of the Vietnamese community, underscoring the growing partnership between Nigeria and Vietnam.
In his keynote address, H.E. Mr. Bui Quoc Hung, Ambassador of Vietnam to Nigeria, reflected on Vietnam’s historic journey since President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed independence on September 2, 1945, in Hanoi. He described the day as a defining moment when Vietnam “moved from slavery to sovereignty, from a colony to an independent master.”
Ambassador Hung noted Vietnam’s resilience through decades of war, embargoes, and hardship, before emerging as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies. With a GDP nearing $500 billion and consistent growth of about 7% annually, he said Vietnam has become a hub for investment, trade, and tourism.
“From a war-torn country, Vietnam is now among the most dynamic economies and favorite destinations in Asia. We are no longer defined by war but by our capability to create peace and development,” he stated.
Highlighting Vietnam’s global standing, the envoy said the country has diplomatic ties with 194 nations, strategic partnerships with 37 countries including all five permanent members of the UN Security Council and has signed nearly 20 free trade agreements.
On Nigeria-Vietnam relations, he celebrated the milestone of bilateral trade exceeding $1 billion in 2024, while expressing optimism for greater cooperation ahead of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026. He praised Nigeria’s leadership role in regional peace and stability and reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to strengthening ties.
Nigeria Commends Vietnam’s Progress
Representing the Nigerian government, Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi, Director General of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council and the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council, congratulated the people of Vietnam on their 80th National Day.
“This milestone marks a significant chapter in Vietnam’s history, showcasing the nation’s determination and progress,” Adeyemi said. He commended the long-standing friendship and collaboration between Nigeria and Vietnam, particularly in areas of economic growth, investment, and regional development.
“May this anniversary celebration inspire continued prosperity, peace, and cooperation between Vietnam and Nigeria, as well as among all the nations represented here today,” he added.
Strengthening Economic and Cultural Ties
Also speaking, Ambassador Sani Barko, pioneer Nigerian envoy to Hanoi and Chairman of the Nigeria-Vietnam Economic, Trade, and Cultural Association, congratulated the people of Vietnam and praised their resilience.
He emphasized the strong and evolving partnership between the two countries, noting that bilateral trade reached a record $1 billion last year. He outlined new areas of cooperation, including agriculture, education, renewable energy, technology, and cultural exchanges.
Ambassador Barko revealed that over 100 Nigerian students are currently studying in Vietnam, with discussions underway for university exchange programs. He also confirmed that Vietnamese companies are exploring opportunities in Nigeria in education and cultural sectors.
However, he called for the review of visa policies to ease travel for Nigerian businesspeople, and urged both governments to accelerate agreements on trade and diplomatic travel to further enhance cooperation.
“Vietnam’s experience in economic development and poverty reduction offers valuable lessons for Nigeria. But for trade and investment to flourish, barriers such as visa policies must be addressed,” Barko said.
Looking Ahead
The celebration, reaffirmed the bonds of friendship between Nigeria and Vietnam. Both nations expressed commitment to deepening ties, particularly as they prepare to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations in 2026.
As Ambassador Hung concluded, “Vietnam is a good friend, a reliable partner, and a responsible member of the international community. Together with Nigeria, we look forward to building an era of shared prosperity and cooperation.”
