THE EMBASSY of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in Nigeria on Saturday, July 5, 2025, commemorated the 214th anniversary of Venezuela’s independence from Spanish colonial rule.
Venezuela’s Independence Day, observed annually on July 5, marks the nation’s declaration of independence in 1811. This historic decision followed a two-day deliberation by delegates of the First National Constituent Congress, which began on July 3, 1811.
During the event, His Excellency Alberto Castelar, Ambassador of Venezuela to Nigeria, highlighted the significance of the occasion.
He noted that Venezuela’s independence was secured through the efforts of Simón Bolívar, the liberator, and acknowledged the subsequent challenges faced by the nation.
He emphasized the transformative impact of former President Hugo Chávez and the continuation of his legacy under President Nicolás Maduro.
Ambassador Castelar also addressed contemporary challenges, stating that Venezuela continues to resist imperialism, capitalism, and fascism.
He referenced recent U.S. immigration policies under former President Donald Trump, which have posed difficulties for Venezuelan migrants. As an example, he cited the case of Maikelys Espinoza, a Venezuelan toddler recently repatriated after being separated from her parents, who were deported by the U.S. government over alleged gang affiliations.
While the child and her mother have been reunited, diplomatic efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the father, who remains detained in El Salvador.
The ambassador concluded by reaffirming Venezuela’s strong bilateral relations with Nigeria and its commitment to fostering cordial diplomatic ties.
The celebration was attended by representatives from the Cuban Embassy, led by Ana Fravia, alongside other diplomats.
Comrade Martin Egabanubi, General Secretary of the National Union of Health and Allied Professionals (NUAHP), and Comrade Gerald Katchy, Public Relations Officer of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, extended their congratulations to the Venezuelan government and commended its resilience against external pressures.
Other attendees include Comrade Dimeji Macaulay, Coordinator of the Anti-Fascist Movement; Comrade Blessing Yusuf, Chairperson of the Federation of Informal Workers of Nigeria (FIWON); Mr. Charles C. Agubor, Executive Director of Committed Advocates of Integrity Initiative (CADII); and Mr. Abiodun Emmanuel Fayemi, Head of African Farmers and Agricultural Practitioners (AFAP)
The event concluded with a shared hope for a world free from sanctions and oppression.
