São Tomé – July 18, 2025
In a show of solidarity and shared grief, Ms. Negar Arefi, the Interim Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to São Tomé and Príncipe, paid a condolence visit to Ambassador Dr. Chris Nwanoro following the passing of former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR.
Ambassador Nwanoro, who is Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to São Tomé and Príncipe, received Ms. Arefi at the Nigerian Embassy in São Tomé. The atmosphere was solemn as both diplomats reflected on the life, leadership, and legacy of the late President Buhari, who passed away recently after an illustrious public service career that spanned decades.
Ms. Arefi extended the heartfelt sympathies of the United Nations family in São Tomé and Príncipe to the government and people of Nigeria, describing Buhari as “a strong African statesman whose influence and legacy transcended borders.” She noted that under Buhari’s leadership, Nigeria played an active role in regional peace and development efforts and remained a critical partner of the UN system in Africa.
Ambassador Chris Nwanoro, a globally respected diplomat and a staunch disability rights advocate, thanked Ms. Arefi for the thoughtful visit and kind words. Ambassador Nwanoro, who is blind, currently serves on the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), where he represents the African continent. His appointment to the Committee has been widely praised as a symbol of inclusion and excellence, proving that disability is not a barrier to global leadership.
During the visit, Ambassador Nwanoro spoke of President Buhari’s contributions to inclusive governance and the promotion of rights for marginalized groups, including persons with disabilities. He recalled how the former President signed into law the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act in 2019, a landmark legislation that laid the foundation for improved legal protections and opportunities for persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
“President Buhari will be remembered not just for his patriotism and dedication to Nigeria’s sovereignty but also for his courage in laying a legal framework for the inclusion of over 30 million Nigerians with disabilities,” Ambassador Nwanoro stated.
The visit underscores the strong partnership between the UNDP and Nigerian institutions in São Tomé and Príncipe and the shared commitment to values of peace, inclusion, and sustainable development.
As Nigeria continues to mourn the loss of its former leader, tributes like these—from both home and abroad—highlight the enduring impact of President Buhari’s legacy across Africa and within global diplomatic circles.
