The visa waiver applies to diplomatic and government personnel only.

　　The agreement was signed by Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez and his Nigerian counterpart Olugbeng Ashiru, after an official meeting at the Cuban Foreign Ministry in Havana.

　　According to a statement cited by local press, the agreement is an expression of both governments' interest in strengthening their ties of friendship and cooperation.

　　At a joint press conference offered by the top diplomats, Ashiru affirmed "Cuba is an ally and natural friend of Nigeria."

　　Ashiru thanked Cuba for hosting and helping Nigerian students studying medicine at Cuban universities, noting it served as a good example of South-South cooperation（合作）, and could be extended to studies in the scientific field.

　　Rodriguez, in turn, described ties between Cuba and Nigeria as "friendly, supportive and productive," and progressing in a positive direction.

　　He also reaffirmed Cuba's willingness to continue developing their ties of friendship and bilateral cooperation.

　　Ashiru noted a resolution（决议） adopted by the African Union summit in May to demand an end to the U.S.-led economic embargo against Cuba.

　　Cuba and Nigeria established diplomatic relations in July 1974, and since then 143 Nigerian students have graduated from Cuban universities, especially from its medical schools.