The High Commission of Nigeria in Singapore hosted a reception marking Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary, highlighting bilateral ties and economic collaboration.
SINGAPORE, 30 October 2024 – The High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Singapore hosted an elegant reception at the Sheraton Towers to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary. The event was led by H.E. Mrs. Francisca Kemi Omayuli, Chargé d’Affaires en titre of the Nigerian High Commission, with Senior Parliamentary Secretary (SPS) Mr. Shawn Huang attending as the Guest of Honour. The reception brought together diplomats, business leaders, Singapore government officials, and members of the Nigerian community to celebrate Nigeria’s rich heritage and bright future.
In her opening remarks, H.E. Omayuli highlighted the strong and enduring relationship between Nigeria and Singapore, noting that both countries have fostered close bilateral ties for the past 24 years, supporting each other’s aspirations on both bilateral and multilateral fronts. “Singapore is one of Nigeria’s major trading partners, and in the fourth quarter of 2023, Singapore ranked Nigeria’s number one import trading partner, with a trade volume accounting for 36.9% of total imports,” she stated.
H.E. Omayuli also acknowledged the contributions of Singaporean companies to Nigeria’s business landscape, including the Tolaram Group, Olam International, and Indorama Corporation, whose investments in Nigeria’s free trade zones and industrial sectors play a vital role in the nation’s economic development. She also praised the Singapore Cooperation Programme, which has benefitted over 700 Nigerian officials through capacity-building initiatives.
The event also highlighted Nigeria’s rich human and natural resources, with the High Commissioner discussing the nation’s growing youth population, vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, and ongoing reforms aimed at diversifying the economy beyond oil. H.E. Omayuli underscored the Nigerian government’s commitment to education, youth empowerment, and job creation, which are central to achieving long-term socio-economic growth.
In his speech, Mr. Shawn Huang echoed similar sentiments, noting Nigeria’s significant contributions to regional peace and security, as well as its immense potential for growth in various sectors, including agriculture, technology, and entertainment. He remarked, “As we look forward to the future, I’m confident that Nigeria will continue to prosper and progress in tandem with our bilateral ties. There’s room for us to grow together to address common challenges such as climate change, terrorism, food security, and to uphold peace and stability in our regions.”
Both leaders lauded the people-to-people ties between Singapore and Nigeria, with many Nigerians living and working in Singapore, contributing to the country’s development. The event served as a reminder of the shared values and opportunities that continue to shape the partnership between the two nations.
Source: IN Diplomacy Reporters
