President Bola Tinubu on Monday expressed condolences to the government and people of the United States following the death of former President Jimmy Carter at the age of 100.
Carter, a Nobel Peace laureate and former U.S. president who served from 1977 to 1981, passed away at the age of 100, according to a statement from his not-for-profit organisation.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the 39th U.S. president as a beacon of service to humanity, exemplifying the profound impact of dedication beyond the highest office.
He said, “As a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and global statesman, President Carter devoted his post-presidential life to the causes of peace, democracy, and the eradication of tropical diseases. His unwavering commitment to these noble pursuits has left an indelible mark on the world.
“President Carter showed us all how to remain relevant and impactful after leaving the esteemed position of President of the United States,” remarked President Tinubu.
“He tackled the challenges the developing world faced, from combating diseases to mediating conflicts and promoting democratic values. He exemplified grace, dignity, and a profound respect for humanity,” he added.
According to Onanuga, President Tinubu fondly remembered President Carter as a trustworthy and compassionate friend to Nigeria.
“President Tinubu fondly recalls President Carter as a trustworthy and compassionate friend to Nigeria. He lauds Carter’s significant contributions through The Carter Centre, particularly his efforts in eradicating Guinea worm disease and river blindness in Nigeria, which have significantly improved the lives of many Nigerians,” the statement partly read.
Tinubu also commended Carter’s impactful contributions through The Carter Center, particularly his efforts in eradicating Guinea worm disease and river blindness in Nigeria, which he noted significantly improved the lives of many Nigerians.
Reflecting on Nigeria-U.S. relations, Tinubu recalled Carter’s historic visit to Nigeria in March 1978 and his three-day stay at the State House in Marina, Lagos.
He stated, “Under Carter’s leadership, this visit marked a pivotal moment in U.S. foreign policy. It laid the groundwork for a pragmatic relationship between the United States and Africa, with Nigeria at its heart.”