President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness at the passing on of former Cuban revolutionary leader, Fidel Castro.

The president said he received the news of Mr. Castro with profound sadness.

Mr. Castro died Saturday at age 90.

“On behalf of the Federal Government, President Buhari offers deepest condolences to Cuban President Raul Castro, and the people of Cuba on the passing early Saturday of the legendary leader, who passionately served his people for almost half a century,” Mr. Buhari said in a statement by his spokesperson, Femi Adesina.

He assured Cubans of the sympathy and solidarity of all Nigerians as they mourn the exit of “this remarkable leader who against all odds stirred uncommon development in sports, education and healthcare sectors of his nation, even to the benefit of other nations”.

President Buhari said he was delighted that Mr. Castro lived to see his country’s improved ties with the United States.

“As a great friend to Africa, countries in the Global South and the Non-Aligned Movement, President Buhari believes that Castro’s place in history is assured, given his sustained successful commitment and towering role in the liberation and anti-colonialism struggles in Africa,” the statement said.