Tinubu pays tribute to late Jimmy Carter

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the late Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, acknowledging his significant contributions to Nigeria and humanity at large.

Carter passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at his home in Plains, Georgia, at the age of 100. The former U.S. president, who held the record as the oldest living American president, had battled cancer in his later years.

In a statement issued on Monday, December 30, President Tinubu reflected on Carter’s extraordinary legacy, particularly his efforts to foster global peace, promote democracy, and combat diseases, which left a lasting impact on Nigeria and Africa.

Tinubu highlighted Carter’s work through The Carter Center, an organization renowned for eradicating Guinea worm disease and river blindness in Nigeria, transforming the lives of countless Nigerians.

The Nigerian president also recalled Carter’s historic visit to Nigeria in March 1978, during which he stayed at the State House in Marina, Lagos. Tinubu noted that this visit strengthened U.S.-Nigeria relations and demonstrated Carter’s unwavering commitment to Africa.

“President Carter showed us all how to remain relevant and impactful after leaving the esteemed position of President of the United States,” Tinubu remarked. “He tackled the challenges faced by the developing world, from combating diseases to mediating conflicts and promoting democratic values. He exemplified grace, dignity, and a profound respect for humanity.”

Tinubu described Carter as a compassionate and trustworthy friend to Nigeria, expressing hope that his remarkable life would inspire leaders worldwide to serve humanity with humility and dedication.

“President Tinubu fondly recalls President Carter’s historic visit to Nigeria and the pivotal role it played in strengthening U.S.-Africa relations. Under Carter’s leadership, that visit laid the groundwork for a pragmatic relationship between the United States and Africa, with Nigeria at its heart,” the statement read.

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Carter’s enduring legacy includes his humanitarian efforts, which transformed lives across the globe. He is survived by his four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.