COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and João Ernesto dos Santos, Angolan defense minister, signed a State Partnership Program agreement between the Ohio National Guard and the Republic of Angola during a ceremony at the Ohio Statehouse, April 9, 2026.
The agreement formalizes Angola as Ohio’s newest partner nation, marking a significant milestone in a relationship first announced in August 2025 and establishing a long-term framework for security cooperation.
“Today’s signing establishes a state partnership relationship built on mutual respect, shared learning and a commitment to cooperation,” DeWine said.
The State Partnership Program, managed by National Guard Bureau, links U.S. states with partner nations to build trust, strengthen military capabilities and promote regional stability through sustained engagement.
Through the partnership, the Ohio National Guard and the Angolan Armed Forces will collaborate on joint training, military exchanges and leader development initiatives designed to enhance readiness and interoperability.
“This partnership represents a significant step in strengthening the relationship between our two nations,” dos Santos said.
The Ohio National Guard added the Republic of Angola as its third State Partnership Program partner, alongside Hungary (1993) and Serbia (2006). Overall, the program includes 115 nations, with Angola bringing the number of African partners to 26.
“This program brings people together to exchange knowledge and strengthen institutions,” DeWine said. In addition to defense cooperation, the partnership provides opportunities for broader state-to-state engagement in areas such as public health, agriculture, education and workforce development, public safety and economic development.
“Through this cooperation, we have the opportunity to exchange experiences, build capacity and learn from one another,” dos Santos said.
Members of an Angolan delegation also met with Ohio National Guard leaders, state agencies and academic partners during their visit to Ohio to explore future areas of cooperation.
“The Ohio National Guard’s strength in the State Partnership Program comes from our Citizen‑Soldiers and -Airmen,” said Maj. Gen. Matthew S. Woodruff, Ohio adjutant general. “Through this partnership with Angola, we look forward to sharing best practices and learning together in areas such as medical readiness, cybersecurity, emergency management and leadership development, in ways that strengthen institutions and relationships.” Angola is considered a key partner in sub-Saharan Africa, serving as a gateway between Central and Southern Africa and maintaining growing economic and strategic ties with the United States.
“We are committed to working together, sharing knowledge and building a strong and enduring relationship for the future,” dos Santos said.
“We are proud to call Angola our partner,” DeWine said.