PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo alongside other world leaders, on Monday, paid glowing tributes to former US President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 100.
Tinubu described Carter as a beacon of humanity whose post-presidential life exemplified leadership and service to global causes.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences to the United States, praising Carter’s legacy in peacebuilding, disease eradication, and the promotion of democracy.
“President Carter showed us all how to remain relevant and impactful after leaving office. He tackled the challenges of the developing world, from combating diseases to mediating conflicts and promoting democratic values. His unwavering commitment to humanity has left an indelible mark on the world,” Tinubu said.
Reflecting on Carter’s ties to Nigeria, Tinubu highlighted his historic visit to Lagos in 1978, which strengthened Nigeria-U.S. relations and positioned the African nation as a key partner in U.S. foreign policy.
Tinubu also lauded Carter’s efforts through The Carter Center, particularly in eradicating Guinea worm disease and river blindness in Nigeria.
“President Carter was a trustworthy and compassionate friend to Nigeria. His legacy of decency, character, and humanity will continue to inspire leaders worldwide,” he added.
Former President Obasanjo, speaking on Arise TV, echoed similar sentiments, describing Carter as a humble leader who exemplified lifelong service to humanity.
“True leadership does not end with tenure. The experiences and relationships gained during the time in office should be used for the betterment of humanity,” Obasanjo remarked.
He commended Carter’s post-presidential engagements, noting that the former US leader remained active in global affairs and held his successors accountable when necessary.
Obasanjo also lamented the global deficit in leadership, urging political leaders to emulate Carter’s commitment to building a secure, stable, and prosperous world.
“The world is like a village. If any part fails to play its role, the entire village could be destroyed,” he said.
Obasanjo’s reflections extended to Nigeria, where he expressed optimism about the country’s future despite current challenges.
“Nigeria is destined to be a land flowing with milk and honey, not a failed country. We must remain hopeful and resilient,” he said.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi expressed condolence to the US and Carter’s family “in this moment of sorrow.”
“President Carter was a symbol of humanitarian and diplomatic efforts, his deep belief in peace and justice has inspired many individuals and institutions around the world to follow his path. His efforts in preserving the peace agreement between Egypt and Israel will remain etched in history, and his humanitarian work demonstrate a standard of love, peace, and brotherhood. His legacy ensures that he will be remembered as one of the world’s most prominent leaders in service to humanity. May God have mercy on former President Jimmy Carter,” the Egyptian President said.
Similarly, Israeli President, Isaac Herzog, described Carter as brave leader.
He said, “In recent years I had the pleasure of calling him and thanking him for his historic efforts to bring together two great leaders, Begin and Sadat, and forging a peace between Israel and Egypt that remains an anchor of stability throughout the Middle East and North Africa many decades later.
“His legacy will be defined by his deep commitment to forging peace between nations. On behalf of the Israeli people, I send my condolences to his family, his loved ones, and to the American people.”
Chinese President, Xi Jinping, said Carter was “a promoter and decision-maker in the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the United States.”
“Over the years, he made significant contributions to the development of China-US relations and the friendship between the two countries. I’m deeply saddened by his death,” he said.
Also mourning, Carter, French President, Emmanuel Macron, remarked: “Throughout his life, Jimmy Carter has been a steadfast advocate for the rights of the most vulnerable and has tirelessly fought for peace. France sends its heartfelt thoughts to his family and to the American people.”
On his part, British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, paid tribute to Carter’s “decades of selfless public service.”
He said, “His presidency will be remembered for the historic Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, and it was that lifelong dedication to peace that saw him receive the Nobel Peace prize.
“Motivated by his strong faith and values, President Carter redefined the post-presidency with a remarkable commitment to social justice and human rights at home and abroad. Whether supporting elections around the world and spreading healthcare solutions through the Carter Center or still building homes with Habitat for Humanity into his nineties, Jimmy Carter lived his values in the service of others to the very end. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”
Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, expressed heartfelt condolences to the American people and Carter family.
He remarked: “He was a leader who served during a time when Ukraine was not yet independent, yet his heart stood firmly with us in our ongoing fight for freedom. We deeply appreciate his steadfast commitment to Christian faith and democratic values, as well as his unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s unprovoked aggression. He devoted his life to promoting peace in the world and defending human rights. Today, let us remember: peace matters, and the world must remain united in standing against those who threaten these values. May his memory be eternal.”
Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, said Carter would be remember for his legacy of compassion, kindness, empathy, and hard work.
“He served others both at home and around the world his entire life — and he loved doing it. He was always thoughtful and generous with his advice to me. My deepest condolences to the Carter family, his many loved ones, and the American people who are mourning a former president and a lifelong humanitarian. May his selfless service continue to inspire us all for years to come,” Trudeau said.
Brazilian President, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, described Carter as “a lover of democracy and a defender of peace.”
He said, “In the late 1970s, he pressured the Brazilian dictatorship to release political prisoners. Later, as a former president, he continued to campaign for the promotion of human rights, peace, and the eradication of diseases in Africa and Latin America. Carter achieved the feat of having a job as a former president, over the decades, that was as important or even more important than his term in the White House. He criticized unilateral military actions by superpowers and the use of killer drones. He worked with Brazil to mediate conflicts in Venezuela and to help Haiti. He created The Carter Center, a world reference in democracy, human rights and dialogue. He will be remembered forever as a name that defended that peace is the most important condition for development. My condolences to his family, friends, co-religionists and compatriots at this time of farewell.”