Italy Celebrates 80 Years of Republic, Reaffirms Support for Nigeria’s Development
Maryam Aminu
Italy has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s democratic development, security and economic growth as it marked the 80th anniversary of the Italian Republic, with the Italian Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Roberto Mengoni, expressing confidence that stronger bilateral cooperation would unlock new opportunities for investment and education.
Speaking at a reception in Abuja to commemorate Italy’s Republic Day, Mengoni said Italy remained committed to deepening its partnership with Nigeria and encouraging greater economic engagement between the two countries.
The ambassador noted that Italian companies have contributed significantly to Nigeria’s development over the years and expressed optimism that the resolution of the long-standing controversy involving ENI, through the efforts of the Nigerian government, would encourage more Italian investments.
“We are sure that the resolution of the long pending controversy with ENI, thanks to the efforts of the Nigerian government, will bring more investments and interest from Italy,” he said.
Mengoni highlighted the long history of Italian business presence in Nigeria, citing companies such as AGIP, now known as ENI, Salini, B-Stabilini, Cappa D’Alberto and Orobica, while assuring prospective investors that the Italian Embassy stands ready to support their activities in the country.
He also underscored growing cooperation between both nations on global issues, recalling that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attended an international conference on combating terrorism in Rome last year, where he met with Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
According to the envoy, Nigeria and Italy will later this year jointly chair the international conference for the replenishment of the Global Partnership for Education, a major initiative aimed at supporting education worldwide, particularly in Africa.
Mengoni acknowledged the contributions of Nigerians living in Italy, revealing that about 132,000 Nigerians were legally resident in the country as of 2025, working across transportation, industry, agriculture, hospitality and commerce.
He cited Paola Enogu, captain of Italy’s women’s volleyball team that won gold in Paris, as a symbol of the contributions of Nigerians and their descendants to Italian society, noting that she was born and raised in Italy by Nigerian parents.
Reflecting on the significance of Italy’s Republic Day, Mengoni described the country’s democratic journey since June 2, 1946, as one marked by resilience and transformation.
He recalled that Italians chose a republican system after World War II, rejecting fascism, colonialism and oppression while laying the foundations for a democratic and inclusive society guided by constitutional principles of equality and freedom.
The ambassador drew attention to Article 3 of the Italian Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law and commits the state to removing social and economic barriers that limit citizens’ freedom and opportunities.
A significant portion of his speech focused on the role of women in shaping modern Italy. Mengoni noted that June 2, 1946, was the first time Italian women were allowed to vote, describing it as a defining moment in the country’s democratic evolution.
He said Italian women played a crucial role in drafting the post-war constitution and in challenging discriminatory laws and social practices over subsequent decades.
Quoting former minister Tina Anselmi, he said, “When women commit to change, their victories are victories for the whole society.”
While acknowledging progress in gender equality, the ambassador said challenges remained in areas such as political representation, employment opportunities, wage equality and violence against women.
On international affairs, Mengoni stressed the need for countries to uphold international law and pursue shared solutions to global conflicts and crises.
Quoting President Mattarella, he warned that promoting resentment and division would only lead to prolonged conflicts and instability.
The ambassador concluded by describing Africa as Italy’s neighbour and partner in confronting common challenges including terrorism, international crime, poverty and climate change.
“Italy does not teach lessons. We can only offer to Nigeria our imperfect example of a country that through decades of hard work has changed for the better,” he said, adding that the democratic journey that began 80 years ago continues today.
