Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – June 27, 2025
Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, arrived in Ethiopia on Thursday for a high-level diplomatic visit and promptly held talks with the Ethiopian Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed. The meeting, which signified the deepening of bilateral relations between both countries, also saw the Vice President signing the official state guest register upon arrival.
In the spirit of cultural diplomacy, VP Shettima later toured the historic Ethiopia National Palace Museum, located within the iconic Grand Palace in Addis Ababa. The museum, steeped in history and architectural grandeur, offers a rich portrayal of Ethiopia’s royal heritage, including artefacts from Emperor Haile Selassie’s reign.
Built in 1955 to commemorate Emperor Haile Selassie’s Silver Jubilee, the Grand Palace stands as a national symbol of Ethiopian history. Between 1966 and 1967, the palace underwent major renovations that doubled its size. It became the Emperor’s last official residence before his deposition in 1974.
The Vice President was guided through various sections of the museum, including the vintage car gallery, royal artefacts displays, diplomatic gifts section, and bas-reliefs adorning the neoclassical facade that narrate the history of Ethiopia.
The visit underscores Nigeria’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships across Africa, particularly with countries sharing common aspirations for peace, cultural exchange, and regional development.
