The Southern African Development Community ambassadors in Nigeria have praised Nigeria’s role in strengthening political, security, and socio-economic cooperation across the regional bloc.

SADC comprises 16 member states. Eight of them are represented in Nigeria, Angola, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The ambassadors made the remarks on Saturday in Abuja during the SADC Day celebration with the theme, ‘Advancing industrialisation, agricultural transformation and energy transition for a resilient SADC.’ 

The annual event marks the SADC anniversary and showcases the region’s achievements in integration, cooperation, and socio-economic growth.

Chairperson of SADC and Zimbabwe’s envoy to Nigeria, Maxwell Ranga, said the community aimed to establish a free trade area and improve food security and sustainability.

He explained that SADC was also working on free movement across the region, stressing Nigeria’s indispensable role in Southern Africa’s struggle for independence.

Mr Ranga stated, “We will never forget Nigeria’s pivotal role in supporting liberation in Southern Africa, particularly its strong support for the Frontline States.’’ 

He highlighted Nigeria’s diplomatic, military, financial, and humanitarian backing of movements such as South Africa’s ANC, Namibia’s SWAPO, and Zimbabwe’s ZANU.

Nigeria created the Southern African Relief Fund (SARF) in 1976, mobilising millions of dollars in donations and nationwide solidarity for liberation causes.

 The country trained freedom fighters, offered scholarships to Southern African students, and supported nations such as Zambia and Tanzania under economic strain due to their anti-apartheid stance.

 Nigeria further used oil resources as leverage, cutting trade with apartheid South Africa and pushing for global sanctions.

 “These efforts cemented Nigeria’s role as a Pan-African force and ally in ending apartheid and colonialism,” Mr Ranga added.

 He emphasised that SADC remains grateful to Nigeria for its sacrifices in liberating the region’s nations.

 “This legacy continues to shape Nigeria’s foreign policy and strengthen ties with SADC, as a defender of African freedom and self-determination,” he added.

Pascaline Yakivu of the Democratic Republic of Congo said the annual celebration in Nigeria highlights investment opportunities, culture, and tourism within the SADC region.

 “To build friendship and business ties with Nigeria and other nations, I invite you to explore the wonders of SADC countries,” Yakivu said.

 Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, represented by Nonyelum Aforkelu, praised SADC for its enduring spirit of integration and unity.

Mr Tuggar noted that SADC made significant progress in advancing peace, socio-economic growth, and democratic governance across Southern Africa.

 He said Nigeria, as a proud AU member and Pan-African partner, values the role of SADC in pursuing continental aspirations under Agenda 2063.

Mr Tuggar stated, “Here in Abuja, symbolic of Africa’s integration drive, we reaffirm our shared responsibility to deepen collaboration between SADC, West Africa, and the wider continent.’’

(NAN)