Tinubu mourns Indian statesman

Abdullateef Fowewe

President Bola Tinubu has mourned the passing of former Indian Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh.

Tinubu in a condolence message to the government and people of India paid tribute to Singh’s dedication in strengthening the Nigeria-India relationship.

Tinubu in a statement on Friday, by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga noted that the former PM’s diplomatic efforts remain a reference point in the history of the bilateral relations between the two nations.

Onanuga wrote, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extends heartfelt condolences to the government and people of India on the passing of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh.

“Singh, India’s Prime Minister between 2004 and 2014, died Thursday at the age of 92.

“Prime Minister Singh’s official visit to Nigeria in 2007 was historic. He earned the distinct honour of addressing a joint session of the National Assembly, a privilege accorded to only a few global leaders.

“President Tinubu pays tribute to Dr Singh’s dedication to strengthening the Nigeria-India relationship, noting that his diplomatic efforts remain a reference point in the history of the bilateral relations between the two nations.

“The President recounts the establishment of the Strategic Partnership between Nigeria and India under Singh’s tenure, which has continued to flourish, driving political and economic prosperity for both countries.

“President Tinubu further lauds Prime Minister Singh’s efforts to forge improved cooperation in defence trade, culture, education, health, science and technology, and ICT.”