President Bola Tinubu paid tribute to Dr. Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding leader, during his state burial in Windhoek. Represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, they honored Nujoma’s legacy in leading Namibia to independence. Tinubu emphasized the strong bond between Nigeria and Namibia, highlighting shared struggles against oppression and celebrating Nujoma as a legendary figure in African history.
On Saturday, President Bola Tinubu honored the late Dr. Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding President, during a state burial held at Heroes’ Acre in Windhoek. Tinubu was represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who attended the burial alongside several African leaders and Namibia’s President Nangolo Mbumba, delivering Nigeria’s condolences. Dr. Nujoma, a pivotal figure in Namibia’s battle for independence, passed away on February 8 at age 95.
In his tribute, Tinubu referred to Nujoma as a warrior who galvanized support from Nigeria and other African nations for Namibia’s freedom. He emphasized that Nujoma’s legacy is not confined to history but continues to resonate in the hearts of Africans. During his remarks, Tinubu articulated the essence of Dr. Nujoma’s contributions to freedom, stating that “we have not come to this sacred ground to bury a man. We have come to enshrine a legacy.”
Tinubu acknowledged that Nujoma’s fight extended beyond independence, stating that he transformed Namibia from under colonial oppression into a nation governed by its people. He praised Nujoma’s selfless leadership, noting, “You built this nation from the ashes of occupation. You did not rule for yourself; you ruled for your people.”
Furthermore, the Nigerian President reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for Namibia during its liberation struggle. He noted that Nigeria was actively involved when many others were silent, indicating that their struggles were interconnected: “When your hands were tied, we reached out. We did this because your struggle was our struggle.”
Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to Namibia and the foundation of their enduring friendship forged through shared struggles. He concluded by stating, “Namibia, you do not grieve alone. Africa grieves with you… Because in this land, in this soil, we did not just lose a man. We gained a legend.”
The state burial attracted high-profile attendees including South African President Matamela Ramaphosa and other African leaders, all coming to pay their respects to the legendary statesman whose impact transcended national borders.
In summary, President Bola Tinubu paid homage to Dr. Sam Nujoma during his state burial in Namibia, underscoring Nujoma’s significant contributions to the country’s independence and ongoing legacy. The tribute reinforced the critical relationship between Nigeria and Namibia, highlighting their shared struggles against oppression and fostering a bond of solidarity among African nations. The burial served not only as a farewell but also as an affirmation of Nujoma’s enduring legacy as a symbol of freedom.
Original Source: punchng.com
