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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye and Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja
The Nigerian Envoy to the French Republic, Ambassador Kayode Laro, is dead. He was aged 63.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Laro passed away on Friday, August 11, 2023, in Paris, France, after a protracted illness.
The Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Francisca Omayuli, in a statement made available to Sunday Sun, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was deeply saddened to announce the death of Ambassador Laro.
“Until his death, Ambassador Kayode Laro was Nigeria’s Ambassador to France with concurrent accreditation to Monaco. He contributed immensely to strengthening Nigeria’s relations with France.
President Bola Tinubu has expressed his profound sadness over the news of the passing of Laro. A statement issued by Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, said the President expressed his deepest condolences to the family of the deceased, the diplomatic community, as well as the Government and people of Kwara State.
He recalled the role he played in making his first foreign trip to France in June this year, following his assumption of office successful, noting that he demonstrated an exceptional understanding of geo-political complexities.
The President affirmed that his appointment of the Fellow of the National Defence College as an Ambassador in July 2020 to represent Nigeria in France was in recognition of his widely respected expertise and dedication.
“Our nation has lost an exemplary diplomat. I will always hold cherished memories of my interactions with him during my attendance at the New Global Financial Pact Summit in France this June. His unwavering dedication and strong sense of duty left an indelible mark. May his legacy continue to inspire us to strive for a more harmonious and prosperous world,” the President said.
President Tinubu prayed that Almighty God will continue to console Ambassador Laro’s family, friends, and colleagues while granting eternal rest to the departed soul.
Similarly, former President Muhammadu Buhari, while also expressing condolence to the family of the deceased Ambassador, said his tenure would be remembered as a significant moment in the relations between France and Nigeria.
In a statement released through his media aide, Garba Shehu, the former president said he recognized Laro as a remarkable public servant who strongly advocated for a strong relationship between the two countries.
He added that the late diplomat’s contributions to governance and policy had made a lasting impact and that he believed that his tenure as ambassador would be remembered as a significant moment in the relations between the two countries. He prayed for the repose of Laro’s soul.
