Nigeria and Angola have formalised a visa exemption agreement for holders of Diplomatic and Official/Service Passports, in a move aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing official cooperation between both nations.
The agreement was signed on February 15, 2026, on the sidelines of the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Nigeria’s delegation was led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, while Angola was represented by its Minister of International Relations, Tete Antonio. The signing was confirmed in a statement by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Tuggar described the agreement as timely and important, noting that it would strengthen diplomatic and official engagements between the two countries. He explained that the visa exemption would ease travel procedures for holders of diplomatic and official passports, facilitating smoother official exchanges and expanding opportunities for cooperation.
He added that the agreement would enhance institutional collaboration and promote stronger partnerships by enabling authorised government officials from both countries to travel more freely without administrative restrictions.
Tuggar also highlighted the longstanding historical ties between Nigeria and Angola, recalling Nigeria’s support during Angola’s liberation struggle. He referenced the landmark “Africa Has Come of Age” speech delivered by former Head of State, Murtala Muhammed, which underscored Nigeria’s commitment to African independence and solidarity.
In his remarks, Antonio described the agreement as a significant milestone that would strengthen diplomatic cooperation and reinforce the shared values between both countries. He noted that removing visa requirements for diplomatic and official passport holders would promote closer engagement, improve policy coordination, and deepen institutional relationships.
He also expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s historic support for Angola’s independence and emphasised that the agreement would further consolidate bilateral relations while opening new avenues for sustained cooperation between both nations
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