By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
Abuja – Nigeria and Bangladesh have reaffirmed their shared commitment to democracy, justice, peace and stronger bilateral relations as the Bangladesh High Commission in Abuja commemorated the 2026 July Martyrs’ Day in honour of those who lost their lives during the July 2024 Mass Uprising in Bangladesh.
Speaking at the ceremony, the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Nigeria, Miah Md. Mainul Kabir, described the July 2024 uprising as a defining moment in Bangladesh’s history, paying tribute to students and ordinary citizens who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for justice, democracy, equality and human dignity.
Kabir recalled that the events of July 16, 2024, marked a turning point when unarmed students and citizens confronted state repression in pursuit of a more accountable society. He paid special tribute to student leader Abu Sayeed, whose fatal shooting while standing peacefully with his arms outstretched became a powerful symbol of the nationwide movement.
According to the envoy, what began as protests against the country’s public service quota system evolved into a nationwide mass uprising that culminated in the fall of the Awami League government on August 5, 2024.
He said Bangladesh’s Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to honouring the sacrifices of the martyrs, supporting their families, rehabilitating those injured during the uprising and preserving the legacy of the movement while building a more democratic, just and equitable nation.
The High Commissioner noted that Bangladesh and Nigeria share common values rooted in their youthful populations, rich cultural heritage and aspirations for democratic governance, peace and sustainable development.
“The most meaningful way to honour the July Martyrs is to uphold the ideals for which they sacrificed their lives—justice, democracy, equality, the rule of law, human rights, tolerance and national unity,” Kabir said.
Representing the Federal Government, the Chief of Protocol at Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Babagana Wakil, conveyed the goodwill of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, to the Government and people of Bangladesh.
Wakil said Nigeria was honoured to join Bangladesh in commemorating the July Martyrs’ Day, describing the occasion as a solemn reminder of the courage, resilience and sacrifices made by the Bangladeshi people in their quest for democracy, equity and accountable governance.
He noted that Nigeria identifies with Bangladesh’s democratic journey, recalling the sacrifices Nigerians have also made in the pursuit of justice, accountability and inclusive governance.
“The lives lost during the July Uprising remain a testament to Bangladesh’s strength and the universal yearning for freedom and good governance,” he said.
The Nigerian envoy reaffirmed the strong relationship between both countries, noting that Nigeria and Bangladesh continue to collaborate through South-South cooperation and multilateral platforms, including the Commonwealth, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the D-8 and the United Nations.
He expressed optimism that both nations would deepen cooperation in trade, diplomacy, development and other strategic sectors, while pledging Nigeria’s continued support for Bangladesh in international engagements.
Wakil also extended condolences to the families of the victims and expressed hope that the sacrifices of the July martyrs would inspire the continued pursuit of democracy, justice and prosperity in Bangladesh.
The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, officials of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representatives of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, members of the Bangladeshi community in Nigeria, development partners, friends of Bangladesh and media representatives.
