The Embassy of Ukraine in Nigeria has opened a Book of Condolences in Abuja in memory of civilians killed during Russia’s recent missile and drone attacks, even as it hosted a cultural and diplomatic engagement with members of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DCAN) to deepen bilateral ties and promote media cooperation.
According to the Ukrainian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Ivan Kholostenko, the assault, carried out on the night of 28 August 2025, claimed at least 18 lives, including four children the youngest not yet three years old and also damaged the premises of the European Union Delegation in Kyiv.
Describing the strike as a violation of international law, he said, “The killing of children is the gravest of crimes, one that requires firm international condemnation and accountability. Russia is a terrorist state, and we call on all countries and international organizations to formally recognize this status. We urge our partners across Africa to intensify pressure on Russia.”
The solemn ceremony in Abuja was followed by a Photo Exhibition themed “Three Years of Resilience: Ukraine in Photograph”, alongside a diplomatic dialogue with Nigerian correspondents.
Ukraine’s Consul, Mr. Oleksul Damiillo, praised Nigeria as a “like-minded nation” that is open, hardworking, and development focused, while underscoring Ukraine’s determination to continue contributing to global partnerships despite the ongoing war.
“We are open like Nigeria. We are ready like Nigeria. We are developing our country, even as we continue to defend it,” he said. “Despite the challenges, we are still contributing from agriculture to IT and industrial collaboration.”
He further pointed out Ukraine’s long history and cultural identity, “Kiev was founded more than 1,500 years ago. We adopted Christianity in 980, and for over a thousand years, our culture has reflected this heritage. Ukraine’s independence declared in 1991 continues this historic tradition.”
The event also featured a tribute to the victims of Russia’s recent missile strike. “We are free. We are Ukrainians,” Mr. Damiillo declared, his voice steady with emotion.
As part of the exhibition, journalists viewed authentic pictures, artifacts, banners, and patches sent from the frontlines symbols of Ukraine’s ongoing resistance since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. The war, now in its third year, has caused thousands of civilian deaths, displaced millions, and drawn widespread international condemnation.
Mr. Fredrick Idehai, Chairman of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DCAN), pledged the media’s support in ensuring accurate, fair, and professional coverage of Ukraine’s diplomatic presence in Nigeria.
“We’re committed to international best practices in journalism, fairness, balance, and professionalism,” he said. “Our association includes every major media outlet in Nigeria, and we’re ready to support diplomatic efforts to make the world a better place.”
Mr. Idehai also emphasized the need for collaboration in countering disinformation. He announced that plans were underway for a joint training program for Nigerian diplomatic correspondents, with support from Ukraine, to foster stronger cooperation.
“What we need is a partnership proper, collaborative partnership,” he stressed. “Together, we can amplify the truth, support development, and build lasting relations.”
The event concluded with a moment of silence for the victims of the war, followed by a guided tour of an exhibition on Ukraine’s culture, landscapes, and wartime history showcasing the resilience and pride of the Ukrainian people as they continue to defend their sovereignty while building international partnerships.