From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has condoled with the government and people of India on the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
Singh, India’s Prime Minister between 2004 and 2014, died Thursday at the age of 92.
According to his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President noted that 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 paid 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 recounted 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 lauded Prime Minister Singh’s efforts to forge improved cooperation in defence trade, culture, education, health, science and technology, and ICT. He also expressed gratitude to the people of India for celebrating the life and accomplishments of this selfless leader and distinguished economist. He prayed that the departed Prime Minister’s dedication to service will inspire the people of India.