President Bola Tinubu honored late Namibian leader Dr. Sam Nujoma during his state burial in Windhoek, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima. Tinubu praised Nujoma as a warrior for freedom who inspired nations, noting Nigeria’s support during Namibia’s liberation struggle. The burial was attended by multiple African heads of state, reflecting solidarity across the continent.
On Saturday, President Bola Tinubu honored the late Dr. Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding president, during his state burial at Heroes’ Acre, Windhoek. Tinubu was represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who attended alongside several African leaders. Nujoma, who played a pivotal role in Namibia’s independence, passed away at the age of 95 on February 8 in Windhoek.
President Tinubu commended Nujoma as a significant figure who inspired Nigeria and other African nations in their fight for freedom. He expressed that Nujoma’s passing signifies not an end, but an enduring legacy within the hearts of Africans. Tinubu highlighted Nujoma’s stature as both a national hero and a symbol of resistance against oppression.
In his tribute, Tinubu stated, “We have not come to this sacred ground to bury a man. We have come to enshrine a legacy. We have come to salute a life that was lived not for itself, but for the people, for the land, for the ideals of freedom.” He proclaimed that for Dr. Nujoma, the essence of liberation remains vital for all Africans.
It was noted that Dr. Nujoma’s leadership extended beyond the pursuit of independence; he was integral to nation-building after liberation. President Tinubu remarked, “You built this nation from the ashes of occupation… You ruled for your people. You sacrificed your comfort for the freedom, dignity, and justice of all Namibians.” His contribution to Namibia’s post-colonial state was invaluable, emphasizing the importance of governance following independence.
Furthermore, Tinubu stressed Nigeria’s active role in supporting Namibia’s struggle against apartheid, stating, “Nigeria was not a bystander in the Namibian struggle. When the world turned its back, we stood. Your struggle was our struggle. Your pain was our pain.” This report underscores the deep historical ties between Nigeria and Namibia.
In his address, Tinubu reassured that the relationship forged through collective struggle creates an unbreakable bond between the two nations. He stated, “Namibia, you do not grieve alone. Africa grieves with you. But more than that, we celebrate you. Because in this land, in this soil, we did not just lose a man. We gained a legend.”
The burial was attended by various African leaders, including the Presidents of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Ghana, among others, as well as former heads of state and diplomatic representatives. This gathering for Nujoma’s funeral reflected the profound respect and solidarity shared among the African nations.
In summary, President Bola Tinubu’s tribute to the late Dr. Sam Nujoma not only celebrated the life of a revolutionary leader but reinforced the enduring bond between Nigeria and Namibia. Tinubu’s remarks highlighted Nujoma’s legacy of fighting for freedom and justice, emphasizing that his contributions extend beyond national borders. The state burial attended by numerous African leaders demonstrated regional solidarity in mourning the loss of a significant figure in the continent’s history.
Original Source: punchng.com
