FG Mourns Death of Former Angolan Vice President, Fernando dos Santos

FG Mourns Death of Former Angolan Vice President, Fernando dos Santos

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Vice President and Prime Minister of the Republic of Angola, His Excellency Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos.

In a statement signed on Sunday by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria said it received the news of the passing of the veteran Angolan statesman with profound sadness.

Popularly known as “Nando,” the late dos Santos was described as a distinguished public servant, a key figure in Angola’s liberation struggle, and a major force in the country’s post-independence political development.

Nigeria noted that his long career in public office, which spanned roles as Vice Minister, Minister, Prime Minister, Vice President and President of the National Assembly, left a lasting imprint on Angola’s governance and stability.

According to the statement, Nigeria shares in the grief of the Angolan people, describing the late dos Santos as “a pillar of Angolan stability” and a respected voice not only in Southern Africa but across the African continent.

The Federal Government said his commitment to national unity, reconciliation and development aligned closely with Africa’s collective aspirations for peace, progress and cooperation.

“On behalf of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Government and the people of Nigeria, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to His Excellency, President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, the bereaved family, and the fraternal people of Angola,” the statement said.

Nigeria also prayed for the repose of the soul of the late statesman and for divine comfort for his family and the Angolan nation as they mourn the loss.