The federal government on Sunday condoled with Angola over the death of former Vice-President Fernando Santos.

Nigeria’s foreign affairs minister, Yusuf Tuggar, expressed the condolences in a statement.

“’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 lifelong dedication to public service, marked by his roles as vice-minister, minister, prime minister, vice-president, and president of the National Assembly, was 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,” stated Mr Tuggar.

He added, “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.”

The minister extended heartfelt condolences to President João Lourenço, the bereaved family of the late statesman, and Angolans.

(NAN)