US embassy cable - 04ABUJA1035

UNCLAS ABUJA 001035 
 
SIPDIS 
 
REAGAN CONDOLENCE 
 
E.O. 12958: N/A 
TAGS: OPDC 
SUBJECT: CONDOLENCE LETTER FROM PRESIDENT O. OBASANJO 
 
1. The following is the text of a condolence letter from 
President Olusegun Obasanjo commemorating the death of 
President Ronald Reagan.  Original has been sent by pouch to 
AF/W for delivery to the White House. 
 
2. Begin text: 
 
His Excellency, 
President George W. Bush 
The White House 
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue 
Washington, DC 
 
Dear President, 
 
Letter of Condolence 
I received with sadness the news on the passing away of 
former President Ronald Reagan on the 6th of June 2004 at the 
ripe age of 93.  On behalf of myself and my family, and the 
entire people of Nigeria, kindly accept our heartfelt 
condolence on this sad loss.  Mr. Reagan's death is a loss 
not only to his immediate family and to the United States of 
America but also to the entire world. 
 
Mr. Reagan's tenure in office marked a significant departure 
from the traditional relations between Africa and the United 
States.  With the refocused and renewed emphasis on market 
reforms, political and social accountability, and stronger 
trade relations, his legacies have continued over the years 
to shape Africa's relations with the United States.  Mr. 
Reagan's special interest in Nigeria was reflective of the 
special relations between our two countries. 
 
We join you and the American people in mourning the loss of a 
political giant, an astute administrator, a courageous 
leader, an erudite international statesman, and a great 
American hero. 
 
Though the world would miss him, his legacies would continue 
to inspire many to reach the highest points of their 
productive, political and creative abilities. 
 
Once again, accept the deep sympathies of the people of 
Nigeria.  May God grant his soul perfect peace and rest. 
Yours sorrowfully 
(signature) 
Olusegun Obasanjo 
 
End text. 
CAMPBELL