On Monday, March 17, the Federal Government of Nigeria and Cuba moved to strengthen the diplomatic ties between both countries.
With renewed focus on health, trade and education, Vice President Kashim Shettima described Cuba as a sacred land where every progressive will identify with.
He gave the description at the Presidential Villa while receiving the Cuban Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, and Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Miriam Morales Palmero.
According to Shettima, the hearts and souls of the Nigerians are with Cuba and her people.
“Our hearts and souls are with you. No matter how long the night is, it will give way to the light of the dawn. We will support you in whatever way we can, especially in strengthening our partnership in healthcare and vaccination programmes,” Shettima said.
Stating that Cuba is a sacred land, Shettima assured the delegation that Nigeria will continue to honour her committment to the nation.
Also speaking, Parrilla highlighted Cuba’s amiable relationship with Nigeria.
“We are commemorating 50 years of diplomatic relations between Cuba and Nigeria. In the formation of our nations, our nationality, and culture, there is an important African and Nigerian descent. The contributions made by African persons in Cuba to our development are immense,” he said.
He also noted that Africans, especially Nigerians have supported Cuba right from the beginning of its revolution.
“Without the support of Africans and Nigeria from the very beginning of the Cuban revolution, we could hardly have survived. We shared common goals in our collective struggle against colonialism, apartheid, and racism,” he said.