UN chief "deeply saddened" by death of Nigerian president Yar'Adua

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Wednesday voiced his sadness over the death of Nigerian President Umaru Yar'Adua, saying his death "is a great loss for Nigeria and its people."

The secretary-general is "deeply saddened" to learn of the death of Yar'Adua, a statement issued late Wednesday by Ban's spokesman, said.

Yar'Adua died at the age of 58 in the capital Abuja following a protracted illness.

The secretary-general "extends his heartfelt condolences to Mr. Yar' Adua's family and the people and government of Nigeria," the statement said.

"Mr. Yar'Adua's death is a great loss for Nigeria and its people," the statement said.

"He will be remembered, among other things, for his efforts to bring peace and stability to the Niger Delta region and for his commitment to democratic governance and electoral reforms," it added.

Source: Xinhua