By MUHYIDEEN JIMOH

President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of Mr Peter Onwubuariri, Assistant Director, Media, at the Presidential Villa and former North American Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Onwubuariri died after a prolonged illness, leaving behind a career spanning journalism, public service and media operations at the Presidential Villa.

Tinubu described his death as a painful loss to the Presidency, NAN, the media community and the nation.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday in Abuja.

The President noted that Onwubuariri was posted from NAN to the Presidential Villa in 2014 and subsequently served under three successive administrations.

He served in the media teams of Presidents Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Tinubu, bringing extensive professional experience to his assignments.

Tinubu described the deceased as a consummate journalist who covered critical national and international issues, including foreign affairs, telecommunications, politics and finance.

He also acknowledged Onwubuariri’s sound judgment and deep understanding of the relationship between government and the media.

Before his posting to the Presidential Villa, Onwubuariri rose through the ranks at NAN and served as an Assistant Editor-in-Chief.

The President said his contributions to journalism and NAN’s editorial operations reflected his dedication, professionalism and commitment to duty.

“Peter was a dedicated journalist and a committed public servant whose professionalism and calm disposition earned him the respect of his colleagues and associates.”

Tinubu said Onwubuariri’s service across three administrations demonstrated his competence, integrity and enduring commitment to national service.

“His years of service to three administrations are a testament to his competence, integrity and commitment to duty.”

The President said the late journalist would be remembered for his diligence, wealth of experience and contributions to journalism and public service.

“His passing is a great loss to the Presidential Villa, the media fraternity and Nigeria. He will be remembered for his diligence, his wealth of experience and his contributions to journalism and national service.”

Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to Onwubuariri’s wife, Catherine, his three children, extended family, colleagues and friends.

He prayed that God Almighty would grant the bereaved family strength to bear the loss and grant the soul of the departed eternal rest. (NAN)