President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that South Africa should never forget that the freedom it enjoys today was made possible through the collective sacrifices of African nations, including Nigeria, which played a significant role in supporting the country's liberation struggle against apartheid.
The President made the remark while reflecting on Africa's shared history and the importance of preserving the spirit of solidarity that united the continent during one of its most defining periods.
According to Tinubu, the struggle to end apartheid was not fought by South Africans alone but received political, diplomatic, financial, and moral support from several African countries. He noted that Nigeria was among the nations that consistently backed the anti-apartheid movement and contributed significantly to the campaign for South Africa's freedom.
The President emphasized that Africa's liberation was built on unity and sacrifice, adding that future generations should understand the historical contributions made by countries across the continent in securing justice and equality.
"Forgetting our shared history risks weakening the bonds that have held Africa together for decades," Tinubu said, stressing the need for continued cooperation among African nations.
Nigeria was one of the strongest supporters of the anti-apartheid movement during the years of racial segregation in South Africa. Successive Nigerian governments provided financial assistance to liberation movements, imposed sanctions against the apartheid regime, and offered scholarships and other forms of support to South Africans affected by the system.
The country also established the Southern African Relief Fund, commonly known as the Mandela Tax, through which millions of Nigerians contributed voluntarily to support the struggle against apartheid.
Political analysts say Tinubu's remarks serve as a reminder of Nigeria's historic leadership role in Africa and its longstanding commitment to the continent's liberation movements and regional integration.
The President also called for stronger diplomatic relations among African countries, urging leaders to focus on shared interests such as economic development, regional security, trade, and youth empowerment.
Observers believe the comments come at a time when African nations are seeking to deepen cooperation through initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and other regional integration programmes aimed at boosting economic growth and strengthening political ties.
Tinubu reiterated that Africa's future depends on collaboration rather than division, adding that the sacrifices made by previous generations should inspire present-day leaders to work together in addressing common challenges facing the continent.
He concluded by urging African countries to preserve the values of unity, mutual respect, and solidarity that contributed to the defeat of apartheid and the advancement of democracy across the continent.