ACTING President Yemi Osinbajo has expressed shock and profound sadness over the death of Prof. Babatunde Osotimehin, Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and a former Minister of Health in Nigeria.
According to a statement issued by his spokesman, Laolu Akande, in Abuja on Monday, Osinbajo on behalf of the people and government of Nigeria, extended heartfelt condolences to his wife, children and entire family over the passage of their beloved father, grandfather and also an illustrious Nigerian.

It said the acting President also commiserated with the staff of the UNFPA and the entire UN system on the demise of “a very remarkable international public servant, who served passionately, diligently and worked tirelessly at the global and national stages to reduce maternal mortality and promote universal access to reproductive health.”

The statement observed that the late Osotimehin, who also had a distinguished career as medical doctor and teacher before he served as a cabinet minister in Nigeria, and later at the UN, would be long remembered for his many significant developmental contributions at home and in the international community, according to Acting President Osinbajo.

The added that as Prof. Osotimehin was being mourned internationally, the acting President urged the Osotimehin family, friends and associates to take solace knowing that his notable service and worthy contributions especially towards improving women and children’s health across the world were widely acclaimed, deeply appreciated, and would be long remembered and honoured.