President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to the late founding President of Namibia, Dr. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, describing him as a warrior who united Nigeria and other African nations in the fight for his country’s freedom.
Nujoma, a revered leader who steered Namibia to independence and laid the foundation for democracy and stability, passed away on February 8, 2025, at the age of 95. He died at a hospital in Windhoek after weeks of illness.
Speaking on Saturday at the state burial held at Heroes’ Acre in Windhoek, President Tinubu—represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima—joined Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba and several African leaders in paying final respects to the late statesman.
Tinubu eulogized Nujoma as not just a national hero but a fearless warrior who defied oppression and inspired an entire continent.
“Nigeria was not a bystander in the Namibian struggle. When the world turned its back, we stood. When your voice was drowned by the guns of apartheid, we spoke,” Tinubu said.
“We have not come to this sacred ground to bury a man. We have come to enshrine a legacy. We have come to salute a life that was lived not for itself, but for the people, for the land, for the ideals of freedom. For him, Africa stands still today.”
The Nigerian leader hailed Nujoma’s leadership beyond independence, commending his role in rebuilding Namibia from the ruins of occupation and ruling selflessly for the people.
Nujoma, who served as Namibia’s first president from 1990 to 2005, was a key figure in the fight against apartheid and colonial rule. His contributions to African liberation earned him widespread recognition across the continent.
His passing marks the end of an era, but Tinubu emphasized that his legacy would live on in the hearts of Africans.
