Nigeria congratulates South Korea on 81st Liberation Day, reaffirms strategic partnership

Abdullateef Fowewe

Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has congratulated South Korea on its 81st National Liberation Day, while underscoring the deepening strategic and economic ties between the two nations.

The statement, released on Saturday, marks the anniversary of the end of Japanese colonial rule in 1945 and celebrates South Korea’s journey to sovereignty and prosperity.

It reads, “The Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria extend warm congratulations and best wishes to the Government and people of the Republic of Korea on the occasion of the 81st anniversary of National Liberation Day, commemorated on 15 August 2026. This historic day marks the end of Japanese colonial rule in 1945 and the enduring spirit of resilience, unity, and determination of the Korean people in reclaiming their sovereignty and building a modern, prosperous nation.”

Since establishing formal diplomatic relations in February 1980, Nigeria and South Korea have developed what Abuja describes as a “robust partnership grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and common aspirations for development and peace.”

Nigeria remains South Korea’s most important trading and investment partner in Africa, with bilateral trade growing substantially over the years.

The ministry highlighted Korean contributions across priority sectors, “Korean companies continue to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, technology, and other priority sectors.”

Cooperation also spans education, digital transformation, renewable energy, and security—including maritime security collaboration in the Gulf of Guinea—as well as people-to-people and cultural exchanges.

Abuja reaffirmed its commitment to expanding the partnership under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, noting support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the Korean private sector.

Looking ahead, Nigeria expressed interest in deeper collaboration in areas of comparative advantage, “We look forward to expanded collaboration in areas of comparative advantage, including critical minerals, smart manufacturing, green energy, vocational training, and democratic governance institutions.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria, we convey sincere wishes for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of the Republic of Korea and its people.”