By Damilare Adeleye
President Bola Tinubu has expressed condolences over the passing of former American President, Jimmy Carter, hailing his contribution to Nigeria before his death.
Carter, the 39th president of the United States of America died on Sunday, December 29 at his home in Plains, Georgia after a prolonged battle with cancer.
He was aged 100 and the oldest living U.S. president of all time.
In a statement released on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu said the late former president showed the world how to remain relevant and impactful after leaving the esteemed position of President of the US.
Tinubu also praised Carter for his efforts to promote peace, democracy, and fight diseases around the world, including in Nigeria.
Tinubu highlighted Carter’s work through The Carter Center, which helped to eradicate diseases like Guinea worm and river blindness in Nigeria, improving the lives of many people.
He also remembered Carter’s visit to Nigeria in March 1978, during which the U.S. President stayed at the State House in Marina, Lagos.
Tinubu said this visit strengthened the relationship between Nigeria and the United States and showed Carter’s commitment to Africa.
The statement read, “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,” President Tinubu was quoted as saying.
“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.”
“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
.“Reflecting on Nigeria-U.S. relations, President Tinubu nostalgically remembers President Carter’s historic visit to Nigeria in March 1978 and his three-day stay at the State House in Marina, Lagos State. 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
.“President Tinubu expresses hope that President Carter’s legacy of decency, character, and humanity, both in and out of office, will continue to inspire Americans and leaders worldwide to embrace the true essence of leadership.”
