The Nigerian Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering solidarity with Cuba, describing the relationship between the two nations as a “brotherhood forged in history and solidarity”.
He made the remarks while receiving the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cuba, Bruno Parrilla, during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja on Monday.
He highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Nigeria and Cuba, which have been strengthened over decades by shared struggles for self-determination, justice, and sovereignty.
He recalled Cuba’s crucial role in Africa’s liberation from colonial rule and apartheid, particularly through its military and diplomatic support in Angola, Namibia, and South Africa.
Recalling the sacrifices made by Cuban internationalists who fought alongside African liberation movements, the Senate President stated that “Africa remembers. When the forces of oppression sought to choke the life out of an entire continent, when apartheid reigned as an insult to human dignity, when nations wavered and hesitated—Cuba did not.
“Cuba stood with Africa. Cuba fought for Africa. At great sacrifice, Cuba sent its sons to Africa—not as conquerors, not as exploiters, but as liberators. In Angola, in Namibia, in South Africa, Cuba’s courage and solidarity became one of the shields behind which Africa gathered its strength.
“To the Cuban people, we say this: Nigeria has not forgotten, and Nigeria will not falter. Together, we move forward—undaunted, unafraid, and unyielding. Your Excellency, welcome to Nigeria. May this visit be the dawn of greater things to come,” he said.
Quoting Cuban revolutionary José Martí, Akpabio reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to standing by Cuba in its pursuit of sovereignty and dignity.
The Cuban Minister of Foreign Affairs, in response, expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s continued support and reiterated Cuba’s commitment to deepening cooperation.
