Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo have extended their condolences following the death of former US President Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States.
In a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised Carter as a model of selfless service.
He commended Carter for demonstrating how true leadership can extend beyond the presidency, making a lasting impact through commitment and dedication.
President Tinubu also highlighted Carter’s strong and enduring friendship with Nigeria, noting that he was a loyal and supportive ally until his passing.
Carter, who passed away at the age of 100, was the longest-lived American president in history.
“As a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and global statesman, President Carter devoted his post-presidential life to the causes of peace, democracy, and eradicating tropical diseases.
“His unwavering commitment to these noble pursuits has left an indelible mark on the world,” the statement read.
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In his response, former President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed his condolences to the government and people of the United States following the death of Mr. Jimmy Carter.
Appearing on the Arise TV morning show on Monday, Obasanjo commended Mr. Carter as a humble and selfless leader who continued his dedication to public service well beyond his presidency.
He described Carter as an exemplary figure, emphasizing that world leaders should strive to follow his model of authentic leadership.
Obasanjo further stated that true leadership goes beyond holding power; it is about having a deep sense of responsibility to use one’s experiences and networks to better humanity.
He also highlighted the current global “leadership deficit,” particularly in politics and various other sectors.
“Whether you spend two or ten years in office, you acquire certain experiences and build relationships that can be tapped into for the world’s good.
“He stayed active until he no longer had the strength, proving that leadership is a lifelong service to humanity,” he noted.
Mr Carter’s death was confirmed on Sunday by the Carter Center.
“Our founder, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, passed away this afternoon in Plains, Georgia,” the non-profit organisation, founded by the former president in 1980, wrote.
The centre said that he died peacefully, surrounded by his family.
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Highlighting his post-presidential initiatives, President Tinubu said that the former US president, through The Carter Center, impacted Nigeria by addressing diseases like Guinea worm and river blindness.
“President Carter showed us all how to remain relevant and impactful after leaving the esteemed position of President of the United States,” Mr Tinubu said.
“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 also reminisced about Mr. Carter’s landmark visit to Nigeria, which played a crucial role in strengthening US-Africa relations, with Nigeria taking a prominent position.
On March 31, 1978, Mr. Carter became the first sitting US president to visit sub-Saharan Africa.
Known as a staunch advocate for international human rights throughout his presidency and beyond, the former US president was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 in recognition of his lifelong commitment to the cause.
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