Nigeria and Cuba Sign Pact to Strengthen Trade, Investment, and Cooperation

Nigeria and Cuba have taken significant steps to strengthen their bilateral relations with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at boosting trade, investment, and cooperation between the two nations.

The agreement was the outcome of a meeting held on Monday in Abuja between Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, and his Cuban counterpart, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla. The discussions also focused on expanding cooperation in other areas such as education, healthcare, and cultural exchange.

Both ministers acknowledged the long-standing historical and cultural ties between their countries, affirming their commitment to nurturing these shared bonds. Ambassador Tuggar emphasized Cuba’s vital role in Nigeria’s diplomatic history, particularly highlighting the country’s support in the fight against colonialism and apartheid in Africa.

Tuggar remarked, “Cuba played a very prominent role in the liberation of the African continent from colonialism and championed the cause of freedom for African nations under the yoke of racist regimes in the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s. Cuba and Nigeria fought against racist regimes in Angola, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.”

He further added that the newly signed pact would enhance cooperation in sectors such as healthcare, science and technology, and research and development.

Cuban Foreign Minister Parrilla, in his remarks, noted that Cuba has a deep connection with Africa, and he expressed gratitude to Nigeria for its unwavering support against the U.S. embargo imposed on Cuba. He said, “We feel that we are part of Africa, we are of African descent, and we will always be loyal to this history. We have a debt of gratitude to the African nations, especially Nigeria, because of the stance your country has taken on the issue of the embargo against our country.”

This new agreement is expected to further solidify the bond between the two nations, paving the way for enhanced collaboration and mutual growth across multiple sectors.