Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, has paid tribute to Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a statesman who championed diplomacy and bilateral cooperation between the two nations.

In a condolence message posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, Modi expressed deep sorrow over Buhari’s death and praised his enduring legacy.

“Deeply saddened by the passing of former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari. I fondly recall our meetings and conversations on various occasions. His wisdom, warmth and unwavering commitment to India–Nigeria friendship stood out,” the Indian leader wrote.

Modi said he was joined by the entire Indian nation in mourning Buhari’s death, adding, “I join the 1.4 billion people of India in extending our heartfelt condolences to his family, the people, and the government of Nigeria.”

Buhari, who passed away in London on Sunday at the age of 81, served as Nigeria’s military head of state from 1983 to 1985 and returned to power as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023.

His remains are scheduled to be laid to rest on Monday in Daura, Katsina State, in accordance with Islamic rites.