RismadarVoice Reporters
November 12, 2026
The Angolan government has acknowledged Nigeria’s contribution to its independence struggle, reaffirming the longstanding diplomatic and economic relationship between the two African nations.
Angola’s Ambassador to Nigeria, José Bamóquina Zau, made the remarks during a ceremony marking the country’s 51st independence anniversary in Abuja on Wednesday.
Zau described relations between Angola and Nigeria as historic, fraternal and strategic, noting that both countries have maintained close ties since Angola gained independence from Portugal on November 11, 1975.
He recalled Nigeria’s support for Angola’s liberation struggle and its subsequent efforts to establish a functioning government.
The diplomat said bilateral cooperation had expanded through the Angola-Nigeria Joint Commission, which provides a platform for reviewing agreements and exploring opportunities in trade, transportation, defence, education, culture and security.
According to him, both countries have also pursued cooperation in cybersecurity, professional training and academic exchanges.
He highlighted the visa-exemption arrangement for holders of diplomatic and official passports as one of the measures facilitating official engagements.
Zau also disclosed that partnerships between Angola’s Namibe and Bengo provinces and Nigeria’s Bayelsa and Nasarawa states were intended to strengthen cooperation at the subnational level.
He attributed the continued development of bilateral relations to diplomatic engagements between Angolan President João Lourenço and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu.
The ambassador further highlighted Angola’s infrastructure development efforts, particularly the Caculo Cabaça Hydroelectric Project.
He said the project, designed to generate approximately 2,172 megawatts of electricity, was expected to begin operations in 2027.
According to the diplomat, the facility would significantly increase Angola’s electricity generation capacity and support industrial development.
The project forms part of Angola’s broader efforts to improve electricity access, strengthen energy security and expand economic opportunities.
Nigeria and Angola have maintained diplomatic relations for five decades, with cooperation extending to regional security, energy production and African development initiatives.
Nigeria’s historical role in Angola’s independence struggle was also recognised during the country’s 50th anniversary celebrations in 2025, when former Nigerian leaders and diplomats received national honours.
The latest anniversary provided another opportunity for both countries to reaffirm their commitment to bilateral cooperation, economic integration and African solidarity.
