Chinese President Xi Jinping, on Wednesday, sent a message of condolence to his Nigerian counterpart, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, over the death of a former President of the West African nation, Muhammadu Buhari.

In a letter made available to the media through the Embassy of China in Nigeria, Xi, on behalf of the Chinese government and people, expressed deep condolences and extended sincere sympathy to the family of the late Buhari, the Nigerian government, and the people.

Xi described Buhari as an important leader of Nigeria, who dedicated himself to exploring a development path suited to his country’s national conditions.

“He made outstanding contributions to national unity and progress, and was highly respected in the international community,” Xi stated.

According to him, Buhari steadfastly upheld friendship with China, actively promoted the Nigeria-China friendship and China-Africa cooperation, adding that “his passing represents a tremendous loss to the Nigerian people and the loss of a dear friend to the Chinese people.

“China highly values the development of its relations with Nigeria and is willing to work with the Nigerian side to consistently move forward the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership,” Xi added.

Earlier, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, had joined other members of the diplomatic community who condoled with Nigeria on the passing of Buhari.

He said: “We mourn a resolute leader whose unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress leaves an enduring legacy. His pivotal contributions to advancing China-Nigeria relations will forever remain etched in our shared history. Our thoughts are with his family and the Nigerian people.”

At the visit to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Dunhai described former President Buhari as a great leader of Nigeria, who led the people to remarkable achievements on the path of national development.

“Former President Buhari was also a good friend of the Chinese people and made significant contributions to advancing China-Nigeria relations and fostering mutually beneficial and friendly cooperation between the two countries. He will always be remembered,” the ambassador said.