By Gabriel Ameh
Nigeria has congratulated the Republic of Angola on the occasion of its 50th Independence Anniversary, reaffirming its commitment to deepening bilateral relations and promoting the shared ideals of African unity and cooperation.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, extended warm felicitations to his Angolan counterpart, Minister Teté António, as well as to the Government and people of Angola.
Ambassador Tuggar lauded the remarkable journey of the Angolan people over the past five decades, describing their 50th Independence milestone as a testament to their resilience, unity, and unwavering pursuit of peace, freedom, and development.
He noted that Nigeria, which played a key role in supporting Angola’s liberation struggle, remains proud of the historical bond between both nations and continues to stand as a steadfast partner in their shared vision for progress and regional stability.
The statement further underscored the cordial and mutually beneficial relations between Nigeria and Angola, strengthened by cooperation in trade, energy, security, and multilateral diplomacy. It recalled that during the recent session of the Nigeria–Angola Joint Commission in Luanda, both countries signed several agreements to expand strategic collaboration and enhance economic ties.
Nigeria also commended the Government of Angola for honouring three distinguished Nigerians — the late Head of State, General Murtala Mohammed; former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; and veteran diplomat, Professor Ibrahim Gambari — in recognition of their contributions to Angola’s independence and the broader cause of Pan-African solidarity.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s readiness to explore new areas of partnership, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the importance of people-to-people connections and sustained diplomatic engagement for mutual growth and prosperity.
Nigeria concluded by wishing the Government and people of Angola continued peace, stability, and national progress as they mark this golden jubilee of independence.
