Angola Celebrates 51 Years of Independence, Commends Nigeria’s Historic Support
Angola has praised Nigeria for its historic support towards the country’s independence, which was achieved in 1975.
The commendation was made by Angola’s Head of Mission to Nigeria, Benin, Niger and ECOWAS, Dr José Zau, during the celebration of the country’s 51st Independence Anniversary held in Abuja on Wednesday night.
Zau described the relationship between Nigeria and Angola as a strategic, historic and fraternal partnership, strengthened by their shared political interests and positions as major African oil-producing countries.
He acknowledged Nigeria’s significant contribution to Angola’s independence process and subsequent efforts to consolidate the Angolan state.
According to him, both countries are expanding their bilateral cooperation through the Bilateral Joint Commission, which is reviewing and updating several agreements and memoranda of understanding.
He said the agreements cover key areas, including trade, transportation, culture, professional training, defence, public security, cybersecurity and academic exchange.
Zau also highlighted the visa-exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic and official passports, alongside twinning arrangements between Angolan provinces and Nigerian states.
Under the arrangement, Angola’s Namibe and Bengo provinces are paired with Bayelsa and Nasarawa States in Nigeria.
The Angolan envoy further noted that diplomatic relations between both countries had been strengthened through engagements between President João Lourenço of Angola and Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu.
On infrastructure development, Zau disclosed that the Caculo Cabaça Hydropower Dam is expected to become operational in June 2027, with a projected generation capacity of at least 2,172 megawatts.
He explained that the project would increase Angola’s total electricity generation capacity from approximately 6,400 megawatts to about 8,600 megawatts.
The envoy also highlighted some of Angola’s achievements in 2026, reaffirming the country’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships and promoting economic development.