The Federal Government has extended its condolences to the Government and people of Qatar following the death of the country’s Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.
Nigeria conveyed its sympathies in a statement issued on Sunday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
The statement expressed solidarity with the Qatari leadership, members of the Al Thani royal family and the citizens of Qatar during what it described as a period of national mourning.
According to the Federal Government, the late Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani will be remembered as a visionary statesman whose leadership transformed Qatar into one of the world’s most influential and rapidly developing nations.
Sheikh Hamad served as the Emir of Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013, when he voluntarily transferred power to his son and current ruler, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
During his years in office, he oversaw sweeping political, economic and infrastructural reforms that significantly strengthened Qatar’s position on the global stage.
Nigeria noted that his leadership was characterised by remarkable commitment to national development, innovation and international engagement.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the late leader’s contributions to the modernisation of Qatar had left an enduring legacy not only within the Gulf nation but also across the Middle East and the wider international community.
According to the statement, his dedication to progress, diplomacy and global cooperation earned him widespread respect among world leaders and international partners.
The Federal Government observed that Sheikh Hamad’s vision played a crucial role in shaping Qatar’s emergence as a major player in international diplomacy, economic development and humanitarian initiatives.
On behalf of the Federal Government and the people of Nigeria, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, conveyed heartfelt condolences to the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
She also extended sympathies to the Al Thani family and the people of Qatar over the loss of the respected former ruler.
The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s solidarity with Qatar during the mourning period and acknowledged the deep sense of loss experienced by the country.
She prayed that the family of the late Father Amir would receive strength and comfort during the difficult period while expressing hope that the people of Qatar would continue to uphold the values and developmental vision he championed throughout his reign.
The Federal Government further recognised the cordial diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and Qatar and expressed confidence that the ties between both countries would continue to flourish under the current leadership.
Nigeria and Qatar have maintained growing bilateral relations in recent years, particularly in the areas of trade, investment, aviation, education, energy and diplomatic cooperation.
The condolence message reflects Nigeria’s continued commitment to strengthening its relationship with Qatar while honouring the memory of a leader widely credited with transforming the Gulf nation into a significant regional and global power.
