New York – Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah met Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima in New York during the 80th United Nations General Assembly, where the two leaders renewed long-standing relations and committed to building stronger cooperation in trade, natural resources, and global diplomacy.
Speaking during their engagement, President Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed Namibia’s gratitude for Nigeria’s support dating back to the liberation struggle and more recently during the passing of Founding President Hage Geingob. She reminded Shettima that he personally attended the burial in Windhoek, describing Nigeria’s solidarity as a source of comfort for the Namibian people.
The President explained that the loss of Geingob occurred between Namibia’s elections and her official swearing-in on 21 March this year. She said it was fitting to use the UN gathering to introduce herself to the Nigerian leadership, as Nigeria was among the first to stand with Namibia during its fight for freedom. She noted that Nigerian diplomats were instrumental in drafting documents and resolutions that eventually secured Namibia’s independence, saying this history placed Nigeria in a special position in the country’s national identity.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah also stressed her government’s intention to continue strengthening cooperation with Nigeria, both bilaterally and at continental level.
Vice President Shettima, delivering warm congratulations on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, praised Namibia’s leadership in Africa and commended the country’s progress in gender empowerment. He said nearly half of President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s cabinet being women reflected competence and vision, calling it a model for a progressive society.
Shettima recalled Nigeria’s role as a frontline state during Namibia’s liberation struggle, saying his country shared in the sacrifices and pains of Namibians. He also linked the two countries’ relationship to the wider African call for reparations for victims of colonial genocide, stating that Namibia could rely on Nigeria’s solidarity in that fight.
Turning to economic ties, Shettima spoke of opportunities to expand cooperation in the oil and gas sector, pointing out that Nigeria’s 69 years of experience in petroleum production could complement Namibia’s significant reserves. He mentioned that Namibia holds an estimated 20 billion barrels of oil and highlighted other potential areas such as fish, salt, and mineral exports. He described Namibia as “a very beautiful country” blessed with natural resources, recounting his drive outside the capital as a glimpse of the nation’s potential.
The Nigerian Vice President further asked for Namibia’s support in international organisations where Nigeria is seeking or holding membership, including the International Court of Justice, the International Maritime Authority, and the United Nations Security Council. He said these platforms were critical for strengthening Africa’s collective voice in global decision-making.
Both leaders concluded that the relationship between their countries was not only historic but also vital for advancing Africa’s shared destiny.
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