By Abiola Olawale
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed his condolences to the family, people and government of India following the death of India’s former Indian Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu conveyed deep condolences to the government and people of India, acknowledging Singh’s significant contributions to the cordial and friendly relationship between Nigeria and India.
The Nigerian President specifically highlighted Singh’s historic visit to Nigeria in 2007 and his role in establishing a strategic partnership between the two nations.
The New Diplomat reports that Singh, who served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, passed away on Thursday at the age of 92.
The statement reads in part: “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.”