By Omonu YG NelsonÂ
Nigeria and Venezuela have celebrated 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two oil rich nations, “underscoring the partnership in promoting peace, development, and solidarity globally,” said Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar
“We’re supporting each other at the global stage, championing the forces of peace, development, and solidarity among nations,” Ambassador Tuggar said during a ceremony marking the milestone on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
He emphasised the significance of their collaboration in the oil and energy sector as members of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
“Nigeria and Venezuela have coordinated policies on oil production and prices stabilized in global oil markets,” Ambassador Tuggar explained. “This cooperation has not only strengthened our economies but also enforced our shared commitment to energy security and sustainability.”
He noted that this partnership has been instrumental in promoting economic growth and development in both countries.
The minister also highlighted the deep respect and understanding between the two nations, which have engaged in meaningful South-South cooperation through platforms like the London movement and the G77. “We have stood together in advocating for fair trade practices, economic independence, and the rights of European nations,” he said.
The minister quoted late President Hugo Chavez, saying, “Nigeria stands against exaggerated increases in the cost of living.” He also referenced Nigeria’s constitution, which places the responsibility on the government to control the national economy and secure the maximum welfare, freedom, and happiness of every citizen.
Ambassador Tuggar emphasised the importance of trade and economic relations in their partnership, exploring avenues for increased cooperation in energy, agriculture, and education. “We have made significant progress in promoting trade and investment between our two countries,” he said. “We will continue to work together to identify new areas of cooperation and strengthen our economic ties.”
The minister also highlighted their political solidarity in international forums, particularly within OPEC and the United Nations. “We have consistently supported each other’s positions on key global issues,” he said. “Our partnership has been instrumental in promoting peace, stability, and development in our region and beyond.”
He extended a heartfelt congratulations to both nations, expressing the hope for a future filled with shared successes and enduring camaraderie. “As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to many more years of friendship and cooperation between our two nations,” he said. “Long live Nigeria, long live Venezuela.”
In a speech, the Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, emphasised the strong partnership between the two nations.
“Today we gather here to celebrate a remarkable milestone of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two great nations, Nigeria and Venezuela,” Dr. Ahmed said. “This occasion is a testament to the enduring spirit of friendship, cooperation and mutual respect that has defined our relationship over the years.”
Dr. Ahmed stressed the importance of their cooperation in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in their regions and beyond. “We pay tribute to our visionary leaders who paved the way for our diplomatic relations,” he said. “Today, as we celebrate this occasion, marking the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries, we honor our generations of leaders, diplomats and compatriots, who planted and nurtured the seed of friendship we are enjoying today.”
The permanent secretary noted that Nigeria and Venezuela share similarities, particularly in oil and gas production. “Recognizing the potentials and commonalities we share as the major oil and gas production nations of the world, there is the need for us to continue to harness and exploit these resources to better the lives of our citizens and provide social economic development in our countries,” he said.
He also acknowledged the significance of regional and global priorities in shaping the interactions between Nigeria and Venezuela. “Nigeria has taken an active role in regional organizations such as the Economic Community of West African state ecoas And the African Union,” he said. “In a similar vein, Venezuela has contributed to regional initiatives, particularly through its involvement in Organization of American state OAS.”
He expressed hope for a future filled with shared successes and enduring camaraderie between Nigeria and Venezuela. “We must look forward,” he said. “We must look to the future and continue to water and nurture these seeds of friendship.”
On his part, the Venezuelan Ambassador in Nigeria, His Excellency Alberto Castellar Padilla, who represented President Nicolas Maduro, expressed gratitude to everyone present, particularly the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, for helping to facilitate the event.
“On behalf of the President Nicolas Maduro, first of all, I want to thank everyone here on behalf of our Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” Padilla said. “March 17, 1965, was the beginning of our bilateral relationship… It was the starting point of our new station, our friendship.”
Padilla stressed the strong relationship between Nigeria and Venezuela, noting that not all countries can boast of such a strong bond with Nigeria. “Venezuela is very proud of celebrating 60 years old of relationship with Nigeria,” he said.
The Venezuelan leader also emphasised the importance of oil in their relationship, stating that it has been the basis of their cooperation and will continue to be so in the future. He praised former President Hugo Chavez, who referred to Africa as the “mother” of Venezuela, a sentiment echoed by President Maduro.
The event was attended by members of the diplomatic community.