In a vibrant show of diplomacy and solidarity, the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in Nigeria hosted a commemorative event on Saturday, July 5, in Abuja, to mark the 214th anniversary of Venezuela’s independence from Spanish colonial rule.

The occasion, which celebrated the historic July 5, 1811, declaration of independence, gathered a diverse audience of diplomatic envoys, civil society organisations, labour leaders, and activists. The gathering reaffirmed support for the Venezuelan people and acknowledged their ongoing struggle for sovereignty and justice on the international stage.

Honouring a Revolutionary Legacy

While addressing the guests, Venezuelan Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Alberto Castelar, recounted the country’s revolutionary journey. He traced Venezuela’s roots of independence to the leadership of Simón Bolívar, known as “El Libertador,” who played a pivotal role in liberating several South American nations from colonial rule.

“Venezuela broke free from Spanish colonialism 214 years ago thanks to the heroic efforts of Simón Bolívar,” Ambassador Castelar stated. “Since then, the country has faced many trials, but the arrival of Commandant Hugo Chávez marked a turning point in our history, and today, President Nicolás Maduro continues to uphold that revolutionary legacy.”

Confronting Global Challenges and Immigration Woes

Transitioning to current issues, Ambassador Castelar drew attention to the growing difficulties Venezuelans face abroad, particularly in the United States, due to immigration policies that have disrupted families and strained diplomatic ties.

He specifically referenced the heart-wrenching case of a Venezuelan toddler, Maikelys Espinoza, who had been separated from her parents following their deportation from the U.S. Her return to Venezuela, the Ambassador explained, was secured after intense diplomatic intervention by Venezuelan officials and eventual approval by U.S. authorities.

“The Espinoza family’s ordeal reflects the broader struggles our people face under imperialist and capitalist systems,” Castelar asserted. “The toddler was reunited with her mother, but her father remains in custody in El Salvador. Our government continues to pursue his release.”

He emphasized that Venezuela today stands firmly against imperialism, fascism, and the economic aggression many nations face through sanctions and global power imbalances.

Strengthening Ties with Nigeria

Ambassador Castelar also used the occasion to highlight the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Venezuela and Nigeria, describing it as cordial, strategic, and mutually respectful.

“Venezuela values its bond with Nigeria,” he said. “We share cultural values, historical resilience, and a commitment to self-determination. Our diplomatic partnership remains strong, and we look forward to deepening it further.”

Solidarity from Labour and Civil Society

The event drew participation from a broad spectrum of Nigerian activists, labour leaders, and representatives of civil society groups—all of whom expressed solidarity with Venezuela’s resistance to foreign pressure and economic sanctions.

Comrade Martin Egabanubi, General Secretary of the National Union of Health and Allied Professionals (NUAHP), joined others in commending Venezuela’s resilience.

“We congratulate the people of Venezuela and salute their unyielding spirit in the face of global bullying,” he said.

Comrade Gerald Katchy, Public Relations Officer of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), echoed similar sentiments, stating, “The courage Venezuela has shown in confronting superpowers is inspirational. Their fight is a fight for all oppressed people.”

Diverse Representation at the Commemoration

The diplomatic gathering also welcomed a delegation from the Cuban Embassy, led by Ana Fravia, as well as numerous civil society champions, including:

• 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 the Committed Advocates Of Integrity Initiative (CADII)

• Mr Abiodun Emmanuel Fayemi, Head of the African Farmers and Agricultural Practitioners (AFAP)

Each of these individuals brought powerful messages of unity, resilience, and a call for justice in global governance.

A Call for a Just Global Order

The evening concluded with heartfelt calls for a new world order—one free from economic domination, sanctions, and foreign interference. Speakers reiterated the urgent need to dismantle systems of oppression and promote a fairer, more balanced international framework that respects national sovereignty.

The event served as a powerful reminder of Venezuela’s enduring struggle for dignity and independence—both at home and abroad. It also reinforced the growing global alliance among nations and peoples who share a commitment to justice, peace, and mutual respect.