…put up exhibition to commemorate 3years of resilience
By Gloria Ikibah
The Embassy of Ukraine in Nigeria has strongly condemned the recent killing of civilians following Russia’s latest missile and drone attacks. 
Speaking while hosting members of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) to an exhibition in Abuja, the Embassy denounced the assaults.
The exhibition, titled “Three Years of Resilience: Ukraine in Photograph”, featured powerful images from the ongoing war, capturing the courage, suffering and hopes of the Ukrainian people.
Ukraine’s Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Ambassador Ivan Kholostenko, who spoke virtually said the overnight attack of 28 August 2025 claimed at least 18 lives, among them four children and the youngest not up to three years old.
Teh envoy noted that the strikes also damaged the premises of the European Union Delegation in Kyiv, and described the strike as a violation of international law.
Hee said, “The killing of children is the gravest of crimes, one that requires firm international condemnation and accountability. Russia is a terrorist state, and we call on all countries and international organizations to formally recognize this status. We urge our partners across Africa to intensify pressure on Russia.”
The solemn ceremony earlier had a Condolence Register opened in memory of those killed in recent attacks, followed by a diplomatic dialogue with Nigerian journalists.
Consular of the Ukraine Embassy, Mr. Oleksii Samillo, described Nigeria as a “like-minded nation” that is open, hardworking, and development focused, while underscoring the determination of Ukraine to continue contributing to global partnerships despite the ongoing war.
He further highlighted the long history and cultural identity of Ukraine.
“We are open like Nigeria. We are ready like Nigeria. We are developing our country, even as we continue to defend it.
“Despite the challenges, we are still contributing from agriculture to IT and industrial collaboration.
“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.”
The event also featured a tribute to the victims of Russia’s recent missile strike. “We are free. We are Ukrainians,” Samiillo declared, his voice steady with emotion.
As part of the exhibition, journalists viewed authentic pictures, artifacts, banners, and patches sent from the frontline 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.
Chairman, Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN), Comrade Idehai Frederick, pledged the media’s support in ensuring accurate, fair, balanced and professional coverage of Ukraine’s diplomatic presence in Nigeria.
“We’re committed to international best practices in journalism, fairness, balance, and professionalism.
“Our association includes every major media outlet in Nigeria, and we’re ready to support diplomatic efforts to make the world a better place”, he said
Comrade Idehai also stressed the need for collaboration in countering disinformation. He announced that plans were underway for a training programme for Nigerian diplomatic correspondents on how to identify disinformation and fake news to foster stronger cooperation with the diplomatic community.
“What we need is a partnership proper, collaborative partnership. Together, we can amplify the truth, support development, and build lasting relations, he added.
The event concluded with a moment of silence for the victims of the war, followed by a guided tour of an exhibition on Ukraine’s culture, landscapes, and wartime history showcasing the resilience and pride of the Ukrainian people as they continue to defend their sovereignty while building international partnerships.
