By Ismaila Chafe
President Muhammadu Buhari, has condoled the government and people of Cuba over the death of Fidel Castro, the country’s longest serving President, who died aged 90.
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 media on Saturday in Abuja, Buhari noted that “the legendary leader passionately served his people for almost half a century.’’
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.”
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.
