By Reportcircle-Abuja
Ukraine has intensified its diplomatic and economic engagement with Nigeria, blending solemn tributes with a call for stronger partnerships as the war with Russia grinds on.
At the Embassy of Ukraine in Abuja on Thursday, a high-profile photo exhibition themed “Three Years of Resilience: Ukraine in Photograph” brought together Ukrainian officials and members of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN).
The event spotlighted Ukraine’s culture, history, and statehood while doubling as a platform to deepen economic, cultural, and media cooperation with Africa’s largest democracy.
Ukraine’s Consul, Oleksii Samillo hailed Nigeria as a “like-minded nation” and reaffirmed Kyiv’s determination to remain a global partner despite the brutal war.
“We are open like Nigeria. We are ready like Nigeria. We are developing our country, even as we continue to defend it,” he said. “From agriculture to IT and industrial collaboration, Ukraine remains a partner.”
Samillo noted that Ukraine has shipped more than 25,000 tons of grain to Nigeria and highlighted Ukrainian companies’ growing presence in sectors including energy, defense, technology, and fashion.
But the exhibition also carried an emotional undertone.
Guests stood in silence as Ukraine paid tribute to 18 civilians, including four children, killed in a recent Russian missile strike.
“Russia is a terrorist state. But no act of terror can break us. We are free. We are Ukrainians,” Samillo declared to solemn applause.
On display were patches, banners, and artifacts sent from Ukrainian soldiers on the Frontline, powerful symbols of the nation’s unyielding resistance.
Meanwhile, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to Nigeria, Mr. Ivan Kholostenko has formally opened a Book of Condolences in memory of at least 15 people, including four children, killed during the massive Russian missile and drone attack of August 28, 2025.
The youngest victim was under three years old.
Amb. Kholostenko condemned the strike as “a grave violation of international law” and warned that Russia’s targeting of civilians and even damaging of EU premises reflected Moscow’s “total disregard for global peace efforts.”
“The killing of children is the gravest of crimes, one that requires firm international condemnation and accountability,” the embassy said.
“We call on our partners across Africa to intensify diplomatic, political, and economic pressure on Russia. Silence only emboldens aggression.”
On the Nigerian side, DICAN Chairman Idehai Frederick pledged the support of the Nigerian media in amplifying Ukraine’s voice and combating disinformation.
“We’re committed to fairness, balance, and professionalism,” Frederick said. “Together, we can amplify the truth, support development, and build lasting relations.”
He invited Ukraine to join DICAN’s upcoming international conference on trade, investment, and networking in October, and announced plans for joint training of Nigerian diplomatic correspondents with Ukrainian support.
The event concluded with a cultural showcase underscoring Ukraine’s centuries-old heritage from Kyiv’s 1,500-year-old history to over a millennium of Christian traditions, while reinforcing its modern message: Ukraine’s battle is not just for sovereignty, but for global freedom and humanity itself.
