The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Vice President and Prime Minister of Angola, His Excellency Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, Nigeria described the late Angolan statesman as a key figure in his country’s liberation struggle and post-independence governance.
According to the statement, signed by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, dos Santos played a critical role in shaping modern Angola through decades of public service.
“Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos was a distinguished statesman whose lifelong dedication to public service helped steer Angola through critical periods of its history,” the statement said.
Popularly known as “Nando,” the late leader served Angola in several capacities, including Vice Minister, Minister, Prime Minister, Vice President, and President of the National Assembly.
The Nigerian government noted that beyond Angola, dos Santos was widely respected across Southern Africa and the continent for his commitment to national unity, reconciliation, and development.
Nigeria also extended condolences to the Angolan government and people, as well as to President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço and the family of the deceased.
“On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Government and people of Nigeria, we extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family and the fraternal people of Angola at this moment of national loss,” Ebienfa said.
The statement added that Nigeria stands in solidarity with Angola and prayed for the peaceful repose of the late statesman’s soul.