By Destiny Obinna
Nigeria has expressed its readiness to strengthen relations with Hungary, European partners and the international community, particularly in areas of trade, education, technology and cultural exchange.
Nigeria’s Ambassador to Hungary, Engr. Abasi Braimah, stated this on Thursday in Budapest during an address to mark the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Braimah said Nigeria was looking forward to stronger educational, cultural and people-to-people exchanges with Hungary, noting that both countries had opportunities to deepen their existing relationship.
He said cooperation among countries had become increasingly important as the world faced challenges such as food security, climate change, economic development, technology and security.
According to him, Nigeria remained committed to constructive engagement with the international community and was ready to contribute to partnerships through its people, resources, ideas and market.
The ambassador acknowledged that Nigeria had faced difficulties in its 66 years of independence but said the country had also recorded significant progress.
He noted that Nigeria’s greatest strength remained its people, particularly young Nigerians who continue to demonstrate creativity, ambition and enterprise at home and abroad.
“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and enormous potential. Our greatest strength remains our people,” he said.
Braimah said Nigerians had continued to make contributions in business, agriculture, education, science and technology, sports, the arts and other sectors.
He said the anniversary was an opportunity to recognise citizens whose daily efforts contribute to the country’s growth and development.
On Nigeria-Hungary relations, the envoy identified trade and investment, agriculture, education, science and technology, manufacturing, sports, culture and tourism as areas where both countries could expand cooperation.
He also called for closer partnerships among universities, research institutions, businesses and young people.
“We would like to see more Nigerian products reach the Hungarian and wider European markets, while encouraging Hungarian businesses to explore the opportunities available in Nigeria.
“We also look forward to stronger educational, cultural and people-to-people exchanges between our two countries,” he said.
The ambassador stressed the importance of investing in young Nigerians through quality education, skills acquisition, technology and entrepreneurship opportunities.
He also appreciated the Hungarian government and people for their friendship and support for Nigerians living, studying and working in the country.
Braimah commended the diplomatic community, Hungarian institutions, business leaders, academics and cultural organisations for their contributions to strengthening relations between both countries.
He also praised Nigerians in Hungary for their contributions to Hungarian society, urging them to continue to uphold hard work, respect and responsibility.
Reflecting on the country’s journey since independence on October 1, 1960, the ambassador urged Nigerians to remain focused on the opportunities ahead despite existing challenges.
“There is still much work to be done, but there is also much to be proud of. Nigeria has the people, talent, resources and determination to build a stronger and more prosperous future,” he said.
He called on Nigerians to remain committed to national progress while working to deepen the relationship between Nigeria and Hungary.
Braimah concluded by expressing hope for continued peace, unity, stability and prosperity in Nigeria, as well as stronger friendship between both countries.
He wished Nigerians a happy 66th Independence Anniversary.
