Tinubu Mourns India’s Ex-Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh

*Congratulates Sununu on conferment of Yauri traditional title      

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu yesterday extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of India on the passing of former Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh.
This was as the President yesterday extended heartfelt congratulations to the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Tanko Yusuf Sununu, on being conferred with the esteemed traditional title, Danmadin Yauri by His Royal Highness, Dr. Muhammed Zayyanu Abdullahi, the Emir of Yauri in Kebbi State.

Singh, India’s Prime Minister between 2004 and 2014, died Thursday at the age of 92.
Prime Minister Singh’s official visit to Nigeria in 2007 was historic as he earned the distinct honour of addressing a joint session of the National Assembly, a privilege accorded to only a few global leaders.

The President, in a release issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, 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.

President Tinubu 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.
He further lauded Prime Minister Singh’s efforts to forge improved cooperation in defence, trade, culture, education, health, science and technology, and information computer technology (ICT).

Expressing gratitude to the people of India for celebrating the life and accomplishments of this selfless leader and distinguished economist, the Nigerian leader hailed Singh’s role in steering India’s economic reforms during globally challenging times.

He prayed that the departed Prime Minister’s dedication to service will inspire the people of India.
Meanwhile President Tinubu in a statement issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, applauded the Emir of Yauri for recognising Dr. Sununu’s qualities and contributions as a vital member of the Renewed Hope administration’s cabinet and his significant efforts to enhance the humanitarian sector in Nigeria.

The President expressed confidence that this recognition from his community will further inspire the minister to continue his dedicated service for the advancement and well-being of the nation.
President Tinubu extended warm wishes to Sununu, his family, the Yauri Emirate, friends, and all well-wishers attending the turbaning ceremony on December 28.

He wished them a joyous and seamless celebration.

Before his appointment as minister, Sununu, who had served as a member of the House of Representatives, representing Yauri, is also a distinguished obstetrician and gynaecologist with many years of valuable experience