Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Federal Government of Nigeria extends warm congratulations to the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa on the occasion of Freedom Day, commemorated annually on 27 April. This was contained in a statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, anipr, Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
The statement reads: “Freedom Day marks the historic democratic elections of 1994, which ushered in a new era of majority rule in South Africa and signalled the formal end of apartheid. The 2026 commemoration, marking 32 years of democratic governance, reflects the country’s enduring commitment to constitutionalism, the rule of law, equality, and human dignity. Nigeria acknowledges the significance of this milestone and commends South Africa’s continued progress in consolidating democratic institutions and promoting inclusive governance.
“Nigeria’s relationship with South Africa is rooted in a shared history of struggle and solidarity. During the apartheid era, Nigeria stood firmly at the forefront of the international campaign against racial oppression, providing political, diplomatic, and material support to the liberation movements of South Africa. This historic bond of solidarity has since evolved into a robust bilateral partnership anchored on mutual respect, shared democratic values, and a common vision for Africa’s development.
“Today, Nigeria and South Africa maintain one of Africa’s most strategic bilateral relationships, characterised by high-level political dialogue, strong economic engagement, and expanding cooperation across sectors including trade, investment, energy, defence, education, and cultural exchange. Both countries continue to work closely through structured frameworks such as the Bi-National Commission, reinforcing collaboration on issues of mutual interest.
“At the multilateral level, Nigeria and South Africa remain influential partners within the African Union, the United Nations, and other global platforms, where they jointly advocate for African priorities, including peace and security, economic integration, climate action, and reform of global governance institutions. Their partnership continues to play a pivotal role in shaping continental policy direction and advancing Africa’s collective voice on the international stage.
Nigeria notes the significance of this year’s Freedom Day commemoration under the theme “Freedom and the Rule of Law: Thirty Years of Democratic Citizenship,” which underscores the importance of constitutional governance and active citizenship in sustaining democratic progress.
“Nigeria also recognises the broader national milestones being marked, including anniversaries linked to South Africa’s Constitution, the historic Women’s March, and the Soweto Uprising—events that continue to inspire democratic values and social transformation.
“On this auspicious occasion, Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations with South Africa and deepening cooperation across strategic sectors for the mutual benefit of both countries.
“Nigeria recalls the recent attacks on foreign nationals in some major cities in South Africa. As brotherly countries, Nigeria wishes to use the occasion of the anniversary of Freedom Day to call on the Government of South Africa to protect the lives and prosperity of foreigners from fellow African countries currently residing in their country.
“Nigeria remains confident that the enduring partnership between both nations will continue to contribute to peace, stability, and sustainable development across the African continent.
The Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria extend their best wishes to the Government and people of South Africa for continued unity, progress, and prosperity, ” it also added.
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