- Tuggar described the deal as a long-awaited step that would enhance cooperation between the two countries
- Tuggar recalled Nigeria’s support during Angola’s liberation struggle
- He explained that the arrangement allows holders of diplomatic and official/service passports to move more freely
Nigeria and Angola have formalized a visa exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic and official/service passports, aiming to streamline official travel and strengthen bilateral ties.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the agreement was signed on Saturday during the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa.
EDDITOR’S PICK
- Grand Wedding Reception: Halimot, Saheed Mark Their Union
- Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA Celebrates Former Chairman, Hon. Segun Adetola, on Birthday
- Sanwo-Olu Flags Off Free Eye Screening for 1,000 Lagos Police Officers
The Nigerian delegation was led by Foreign Affairs Minister Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, while Angola was represented by Minister of International Relations Amb. Tete Antonio.
At the signing, Tuggar described the deal as a long-awaited step that would enhance cooperation between the two countries.
He explained that the arrangement allows holders of diplomatic and official/service passports to move more freely, facilitating smoother official exchanges and creating opportunities for joint initiatives, dialogue, and institutional collaboration. Highlighting the historical relationship between Nigeria and Angola, Tuggar recalled Nigeria’s support during Angola’s liberation struggle, referencing the ideological conflict between the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) and the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA). He also cited the landmark speech by former Head of State, Gen. Murtala Muhammed, titled “Africa Has Come of Age,” which affirmed Nigeria’s solidarity with Angola’s independence. In response, Antonio acknowledged the deep-rooted ties between the two nations and Nigeria’s role in Africa’s anti-colonial struggle, describing the agreement as a forward-looking milestone that would consolidate diplomatic relations and expand opportunities for cooperation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that the visa exemption would translate historical goodwill into practical partnerships, modernize diplomatic engagement, reduce administrative barriers to official travel, strengthen policy coordination, and enhance collaboration between institutions in Nigeria and Angola. FURTHER READING
