Ukraine Embassy in Nigeria Hosts DICAN, Opens Condolence Book In Nigeria Amid War with Russia, Pledges Enhance Ties In Agriculture, IT
Oru Leonard
The Ukrainian Embassy in Nigeria recently hosted members of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN), for a cultural and diplomatic engagement, while also opening a Book of Condolences to honor civilians killed in Russia’s recent missile and drone attacks. Here are the key points from the even
Ukrainian Ambassador Ivan Kholostenko in a virtual presentation condemned the Russian attack, which killed at least 18 people, including four children, and damaged the European Union Delegation offices in Kyiv. He described the strike as a violation of international law and called on countries and international organizations to formally recognize Russia as a “terrorist state”.
After a minute silence to honour those who lost their lives in the face of attacks, the event featured a Photo Exhibition titled “Three Years of Resilience: Ukraine in Photograph” and a diplomatic dialogue with Nigerian correspondents. Ukraine’s Consul, Oleksii Samillo, praised Nigeria as a “like-minded nation” and highlighted Ukraine’s determination to contribute to global partnerships despite the ongoing 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. “Despite the challenges, we are still contributing from agriculture to IT and industrial collaboration.”
He further pointed out Ukraine’s long history and cultural identity, “Kiev was founded more than 1,500 years ago. We adopted Christianity in 988, and for over a thousand years, our culture has reflected this heritage. Ukraine’s independence declared in 1991 continues this historic tradition.”
Mr. Fredrick Idehai, Chairman of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN), pledged the media’s support in ensuring accurate, fair, and professional coverage of Ukraine’s diplomatic presence in Nigeria.
“We’re committed to international best practices in journalism, fairness, balance, and professionalism,” he said. “Our association includes every major media outlet in Nigeria, and we’re ready to support diplomatic efforts to make the world a better place.”
Mr. Idehai also emphasized the need for collaboration in countering disinformation. He announced that plans were underway for a joint training program for Nigerian diplomatic correspondents, with support from Ukraine, to foster stronger cooperation.
“What we need is a partnership proper, collaborative partnership,” he stressed. “Together, we can amplify the truth, support development, and build lasting relations.”
As part of the exhibition, journalists viewed authentic pictures, artifacts, banners, and patches sent from the frontlines symbols of Ukraine’s ongoing resistance since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. The war, now in its third year, has caused thousands of civilian deaths, displaced millions, and drawn widespread international condemnation.
The event showcased Ukraine’s resilience and pride in defending its sovereignty while building international partnerships. The Ukrainian officials emphasized their country’s long history, cultural identity, and contributions to global development, including agriculture and IT.
