Vice President Kashim Shettima has reminded South Africa of Nigeria’s historic contribution to the liberation of Southern Africa, stating that the freedoms enjoyed today were achieved through the sacrifices of several African nations, including Nigeria.
Speaking at the 69th ECOWAS Summit in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Shettima said Nigeria made significant financial and diplomatic contributions to anti-apartheid and liberation movements, urging African nations to recognize their shared history and strengthen continental unity.
Shettima Recalls Nigeria’s Support for Southern Africa
Addressing participants at the summit, Kashim Shettima said generations of Nigerians made personal sacrifices to support liberation struggles across Southern Africa. He recalled that deductions were made from scholarship allowances paid to Nigerian students to help finance liberation movements.
According to the Vice President, Nigeria stood firmly with countries fighting colonialism and apartheid, contributing resources, diplomatic support and humanitarian assistance in pursuit of African freedom.
“South Africa needs to be reminded that the freedom the country currently enjoys is due to the liberation efforts of African countries such as Nigeria,” Shettima said, adding that many Nigerians willingly contributed to the cause despite economic challenges at the time.
Calls for Unity Amid Diplomatic Differences
Shettima urged African nations to avoid directing frustrations toward fellow Africans, arguing instead that countries should focus on addressing the root causes of their internal challenges. “They should learn to know where their problem lies. Their problem does not lie with fellow Africans who are there to sell their wares,” he said, emphasizing the importance of African solidarity, regional cooperation and peaceful coexistence.
His remarks come against the backdrop of periodic tensions involving African migrants and traders in parts of South Africa, issues that have occasionally strained diplomatic relations between Pretoria and several African countries, including Nigeria.
Renewed Focus on Pan-African Cooperation
The Vice President’s comments have reignited discussions about Nigeria’s historical role in Africa’s liberation movements and its longstanding commitment to regional integration.
Political observers say the remarks also reinforce calls for stronger cooperation among African nations as they confront common challenges, including security, economic development, migration and intra-African trade.
As African leaders continue discussions on regional integration and cooperation, Shettima’s remarks have highlighted the enduring importance of shared history in shaping the continent’s future. OGM News NG will continue to monitor reactions from across Africa and provide updates on developments arising from the ECOWAS Summit.
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