By Priscilla Osaje, News Agency of Nigeria, Abuja

Mr Tak Namgung, Charge d’ Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Nigeria, has commended Nigeria for growing stronger partnership with Korea Republic in creativity and innovation.

Namgung said that at the commemoration of National Day of the Republic of Korea in Abuja on Friday.

According to him, the two nations shared a belief in potential, people, innovation and in the power of working together.

” This year marks 45 years of diplomatic relations between Korea and Nigeria. Over the past decade, our partnership has grown stronger and more diverse.

“It is also what inspires Korea’s key initiatives in business, technology, and culture. Whether it is K-pop, K-food or K-tech, they all come from the same idea that is openness and creativity that can change our lives.

“In today’s uncertain and changing world, those values matter more than ever and they are the reasons why Korea sees Nigeria as an important partner,” he said.

The Charge d’ Affaires noted that Korea was one of the poorest countries in the world, but through hard work, education and most importantly a firm belief in democracy and freedom, she turned herself into a strong economy and a creative society.

“The belief that real progress must be built on freedom and human dignity continues to guide us today.

“It has also been good for both of us, great companies such as Dell EMC and Samsung Tech Industries are helping to build luxurious industries and infrastructure,” he added.

He commended Nigerian business leaders in return, for bringing great energy that inspired them, adding that what truly connected them were the people.

“More than 1,800 Nigerian students and officials have studied or trained in Korea, and they are now making a difference in their communities here at home.

“Nigeria leads Africa in creativity and innovation, from fin-tech to value and happiness.

“This is something we deeply admire, as we know that the same passion and imagination also drove Korea’s openness.

“Looking ahead, Korea will continue to work closely with Nigeria to create new opportunities from trade and technology and to culture and education.

“The embassy will keep serving as a bridge for that motivation,” he pledged.

According to him, today’s celebration will help to remind everyone of the deep relationship and partnership between Korea and Nigeria, as well as their people.

Also speaking, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs, congratulated the government and people of Korea on this auspicious occasion that stood as a vibrant tribute to the founding ideals and lasting accomplishments of the Republic of Korea.

The minister, who was represented by Amb. Mohammed Haidara, Deputy Director for Asia and Pacific Division of the Ministry, said the occasion provided an opportunity not only to honour Korea’s history, historical journey, but also to reaffirm the core values that had carried its growth and progress over the years.

He added that Nigeria and Korea had enjoyed a long-lasting and cordial relationship marked by mutual trust and a shared commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Tuggar noted that over the years, their partnership had flourished across a range of sectors, including trade, investment, education, technology, and development cooperation.

“In particular, Nigeria recognises and appreciates Korea’s meaningful contributions through the Korea International Cooperation Agency(KOICA).

“In commemoration of national milestones, Korea’s National Day starts as a meaningful moment of reflection.

“It highlights the principles of peace, cooperation, and mutual respect which have consistently underpinned diplomatic relations and engagement between our two nations.

“These values remain central to our shared commitment to fostering understanding and collaboration across various sectors.

“Through KOICA, Korea has supported Nigeria’s development priorities in impactful and tangible ways, further reinforcing the foundation of our friendship and collaboration.

“As we continue to navigate the complexities of the global landscape, it becomes increasingly evident that the strength of our future lies in the cultivation of strategic partnerships.

” These alliances grounded in shared values and a commitment to mutual benefit are essential for addressing the challenges and opportunities of our interconnected world,” he added .

He added that Korea’s achievements served as a source of inspiration for nations around the world, including Nigeria.

” The presence of this dynamic community stands as a testament to the enduring ties and fruitful partnerships that continue to flourish between Nigeria and the Republic of Korea.

“Excellencies, as we celebrate this important day, please accept our best wishes for continuous peace, prosperity, and global leadership for the Republic of Korea,” he said.

The minister stated that Nigeria remained committed in working closely with Korea government and to advance their common goals and foster enduring goodwill.

Mr Nnamdi Ezochi, Chairman, Nigeria-South Korea Parliamentary Friendship Group, said the commemoration of Korea’s National Day reminded them not only of Korea’s legendary origins, but also of the timeless values of resilience, innovation and nation-building that continued to inspire the world.

According to him, over the years, the Republic of Korea has emerged as a shining example of what visionary leadership, discipline, and innovation can achieve.

Ezochi added that from a post-war nation to one of the most advanced economies in the world, Korea’s journey embodied the power of determination and national purpose.

“For Nigeria, Korea represents a true friend and development partner, our two nations share a growing relationship built on mutual respect, trade, education and technology.

” l am proud to note the deepening ties between our countries and the increasing collaborations between our governments, institutions, and peoples.

“As we celebrate Korea’s National Day, it is important to reaffirm our shared commitment to strengthening this partnership in areas such as technology and industrial development, education and human capital and energy cooperation,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highlight of the event was performance by Gind Hawang, a Korean soloist performer from the experimental Band “Bando and Sangjaru performing with Yeongui among others.

NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA