By Ihechi Enyinnaya
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the passing of American civil rights icon, Jesse Jackson, who died on Tuesday at the age of 84.
In a State House statement issued on February 17, 2026, the President joined the people of the United States and the global community in mourning the renowned Baptist preacher and activist, describing him as a servant-leader who devoted his life to the dignity of Black people, the oppressed, and the voiceless.
President Tinubu noted that Reverend Jackson rose to prominence as a young activist working alongside civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., continuing the struggle for racial justice and equality in the United States.
Reflecting on his personal experience as a student in Chicago in the 1970s, Tinubu recalled witnessing Jackson’s activism firsthand in the city where many of his major battles against injustice and discrimination were fought. He described the late cleric as a faithful servant of God and humanity who helped steer American society closer to the promise of the American dream.
The President credited Jackson’s persistent advocacy for social and economic reforms as laying the groundwork for the eventual emergence of Barack Obama as the first Black President of the United States. He noted that Jackson himself had sought the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.
Tinubu also highlighted Jackson’s strong ties to Africa and Nigeria, describing him as a moral voice against apartheid in South Africa and a key advocate for the release of Nelson Mandela and other leaders of the African National Congress. According to the President, Jackson played a leading role in mobilising support for sanctions against the apartheid regime.
During Nigeria’s period of military dictatorship, Tinubu said, Jackson stood firmly in defence of human rights and democratic governance. He recalled that Jackson served as Special Envoy to Nigeria and Africa under then U.S. President Bill Clinton in 1997 and 1999, working to promote civil liberties and strengthen democratic institutions across the continent.
President Tinubu described Reverend Jackson as a remarkable figure whose voice for justice and human progress resonated globally, even in his later years. He recalled Jackson’s enduring message to “keep hope alive,” urging people never to abandon the fight for what is right.
He concluded by praying for the eternal rest of the late civil rights leader’s soul, describing him as great and noble.