The Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria have received with profound sadness the news of the passing of His Excellency, Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos, former Vice President and former Prime Minister of the Republic of Angola.
“Nando,” as he was fondly known, was a distinguished statesman, a veteran of Angola’s liberation struggle, and a pivotal figure in the Angolan post-independence political landscape. His lifelong dedication to public service, marked by his roles as Vice Minister, Minister, Prime Minister, Vice President and President of the National Assembly, was instrumental in shaping modern Angola and steering the country through critical periods of its history.
Nigeria shares in the grief of our Angolan brothers and sisters at this moment of national loss. The late Fernando dos Santos was not only a pillar of Angolan stability but also a respected voice in the Southern African region and across the African continent. His commitment to national unity, reconciliation, and development resonates deeply with our own continental aspirations for peace and progress.
Therefore, on behalf of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Government, and the entire Nigerian nation, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to His Excellency, President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, the bereaved family of the late statesman, and the fraternal people of Angola.
We pray that the Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest and comfort all who mourn his passing.
Signed:
Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, anipr
Spokesperson,
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abuja
Sunday, 21st December, 2025
