ADVERTISEMENT

President condoles with Cuba over Castro’s death

Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari has joined world leaders in condoling with Cuba over the death of Fidel Castro.

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari speaks during a news conference after meeting with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan in Abuja, Nigeria March 2, 2016

In a condolence message signed by Mr Femi Adesina, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Buhari offered his deepest condolences to the Cuban President, Raul Castro and the people of Cuba over the death announced early today.

Raul is the younger brother and successor of the deceased.

In the condolence message made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja, Buhari noted that “the legendary leader passionately served his people for almost half a century.’’

ADVERTISEMENT

He expressed the sympathy and solidarity of all Nigerians as Cubans mourn the exit of ‘this remarkable leader”.

Buhari noted that Castro, against all odds, stirred uncommon development in sports, education and healthcare sectors of his nation, even to the benefit of other nations.

He expressed delight that Castro lived to see the improved ties between his country and the United States.

“As a great friend to Africa, countries in the global South and the Non-Aligned Movement, Castro’s place in history is assured, given his sustained successful commitment and towering role in the liberation and anti-colonialism struggles in Africa,” he said.

The Nigerian leader said that his prayers and thoughts were with Castro’s family, friends and many admirers “as they go through this period of national mourning and exit of a truly admired selfless global leader.”

ADVERTISEMENT

NAN reports that the late Fidel Castro took over power in Cuba in 1959 in a revolution and ruled the country for 49 years with a mix of charisma and iron will.

The late Cuban leader created a one-party state and become a central figure in the Cold War era.

Castro, who for five decades defied U.S. efforts to topple him, died on Friday at the age of 90.

He had been in poor health since an intestinal ailment nearly killed him in 2006 forcing him to formally cede power to his younger brother Raul Castro two years later.

A state funeral had been fixed for Sunday Dec. 4, in Santiago de Cuba, according to state media report.

JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!

Unblock notifications in browser settings.
ADVERTISEMENT

Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:

Email: eyewitness@pulse.ng

Recommended articles

Adamawa Police reaffirms ban on motorcycles in Yola

Adamawa Police reaffirms ban on motorcycles in Yola

You make bold decisions & live with consequences - Ondo Gov hails Tinubu at 72

You make bold decisions & live with consequences - Ondo Gov hails Tinubu at 72

170 electrical vandalism cases in 2 years, 100 charged to court - EEDC

170 electrical vandalism cases in 2 years, 100 charged to court - EEDC

Tinubu appoints Bello as chairman of code of conduct bureau

Tinubu appoints Bello as chairman of code of conduct bureau

Don't curse, condemn Nigeria in your sermons - Tinubu tells clerics

Don't curse, condemn Nigeria in your sermons - Tinubu tells clerics

Lagos postpones eagerly anticipated Easter boat regatta indefinitely

Lagos postpones eagerly anticipated Easter boat regatta indefinitely

Third Mainland Bridge reopens in 1 week, formal ceremony later - Minister

Third Mainland Bridge reopens in 1 week, formal ceremony later - Minister

Sanwo-Olu opens 'Sunday market' on Good Friday for Easter shopping

Sanwo-Olu opens 'Sunday market' on Good Friday for Easter shopping

Wike thanks Tinubu for the opportunity to serve

Wike thanks Tinubu for the opportunity to serve

Pulse Sports

Nigeria vs Mali: Has Finidi George done enough to land Super Eagles job permanently?

Nigeria vs Mali: Has Finidi George done enough to land Super Eagles job permanently?

I want to emulate Keshi and win the AFCON - Finidi George shares ambitious Super Eagles dream

I want to emulate Keshi and win the AFCON - Finidi George shares ambitious Super Eagles dream

Michelle Alozie: I had to do it because of African referees

Michelle Alozie: I had to do it because of African referees

AC Milan star reveals he was named after Super Eagles legend Tijani Babangida

AC Milan star reveals he was named after Super Eagles legend Tijani Babangida

Give him the job! Super Eagles fans beg NFF to make Finidi George permanent coach after Nigeria's win over Ghana

Give him the job! Super Eagles fans beg NFF to make Finidi George permanent coach after Nigeria's win over Ghana

Super Eagles 2-1 Black Stars: Nigerians praise Iwobi, Lookman, Finidi George after friendly victory against Ghana

Super Eagles 2-1 Black Stars: Nigerians praise Iwobi, Lookman, Finidi George after friendly victory against Ghana

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT