Cuban Envoy Decries Trump-Era Blockade, Seeks Stronger Ties With Nigeria
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
The Deputy Ambassador of Cuba in Nigeria, Ana Flavia, has lamented the severe impact of the Trump administration’s reinforced blockade on Cuba, describing it as a major challenge for the country.
Speaking in Abuja while hosting a delegation from the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN), Flavia highlighted the economic hardships faced by Cuba.
Despite the difficulties, she reaffirmed Cuba’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria, especially in education and culture.
“Nigeria is a very strong country, and we need help from everywhere in the world to survive this complicated situation,” she stated, emphasising Cuba’s efforts to boost economic cooperation and educational exchanges between both nations.
Flavia also acknowledged financial limitations but assured that alternative arrangements are being explored to support Nigerian journalists and students interested in traveling to Cuba. She stressed the need for media support, saying, “We are very happy to be in contact with you… we need the press support.”
DICAN Chairman, Idehai Frederick, assured the envoy of the media’s commitment to amplifying Cuba’s policy interests in Nigeria.
He emphasised the media’s role in strengthening diplomatic ties and promoting democracy.
The meeting also highlighted the upcoming DICAN Diplomatic/Security International Conference set for June 19, 2025, in Abuja.
The event, themed “Nigeria’s 4Ds Foreign Policy Strategy Amidst Global Security Challenges”, will feature key stakeholders, with Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, as the keynote speaker.
Frederick noted that through media engagement and agenda-setting, journalists can push governments to address pressing global and national challenges, ultimately fostering better international relations.
