The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) diplomatic missions in Nigeria—including Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam—have pledged to deepen bilateral ties with Nigeria.
The commitment was made on Thursday evening in Abuja during the “Essence of ASEAN” festival reception hosted by the Malaysian High Commission in Nigeria in collaboration with the embassies of the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam.
ASEAN is a regional bloc of 10 Southeast Asian countries focused on promoting economic and security cooperation among its members.
Malaysian High Commissioner Mr. Aiyub Omar, who currently chairs the ASEAN Committee in Abuja, emphasized the festival’s significance in fostering mutual understanding and collaboration. He noted that Malaysia has enjoyed bilateral relations with Nigeria since 1965, marking 60 years of partnership in 2025.
“This festival aims to raise awareness of ASEAN’s cultural offerings and opportunities in Nigeria, where interest in travel to Malaysia has surged, with over 300 visa applications from Nigerians every month,” he said.
Omar also pointed out that over 3,000 Nigerians are currently studying in both public and private Malaysian universities. He highlighted ASEAN’s rotating chairmanship system, renewed every six months, as a means of maintaining dynamic engagement among its member states.
Philippine Ambassador Mr. Mersole Mellejor called for increased awareness of ASEAN’s role and vision, especially among everyday Nigerians. He stressed the need for ASEAN to be more visible and active in Nigeria, citing the enormous potential in aligning with West Africa’s growing market of nearly one billion people.
Representing Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Janet Olisa, Director of Regions in the ministry, reaffirmed Nigeria’s strong ties with ASEAN nations. She highlighted ongoing collaborations in trade, tourism, and education as critical to driving economic growth for both regions.
“ASEAN has taught us that trade and tourism must first flourish among member states before expanding outward. That’s a lesson we are also applying through initiatives like the West Africa Economic Summit,” she said.
She praised the scholarship and exchange programs offered by ASEAN countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines, and emphasized their impact on human capital development.
The evening featured vibrant displays of ASEAN culture, including traditional dances, attire, music, and cuisine, along with promotional materials to help familiarize Nigerians with the rich diversity of the ASEAN region.
