By FORTUNE ABANG

The Federal Government on Sunday condoled with the Republic of Angola over the passing of the former Vice-President, Fernando Santos.

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, expressed the condolence in behalf of the Federal Government in a statement by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Tuggar said, Santos’ passing was received with profound sadness.

According to him, “Nando,” as he was fondly called, was a distinguished statesman, a veteran of Angola’s liberation struggle, and a pivotal figure in the Angolan post-independence political landscape.

“His life-long dedication to public service, marked by his roles as Vice-Minister, Minister, Prime Minister, Vice-President, and President of the National Assembly, were instrumental in shaping modern Angola, and in steering the country through critical periods of its history.

“Nigeria shares in the grief of our Angolan brothers and sisters at this moment of national loss.

“The late Santos was not only a pillar of Angolan stability but also a respected voice in the Southern African region and across the African continent.

“His commitment to national unity, reconciliation, and development resonates deeply with our own continental aspirations for peace and progress,” Tuggar said.

The minister extended heartfelt condolences to President João Lourenço, the bereaved family of the late statesman, and the fraternal people of Angola, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians in general..

He prayed the Almighty God grants Santos’ soul eternal rest and comforts all who mourned his passing. (NAN)