5 June 2017

UNITED NATIONS, New York, 5 June 2017 – The President of the United Nations General Assembly, H.E. Mr. Peter Thomson, issued the following statement on the passing away of Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin:

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing away of Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin, Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund and Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Dr. Osotimehin was a true global citizen and inspirational leader on issues of public health, women’s empowerment and young people. His passing away is a major loss for all of us in the UN family. Let us follow the example he set and continue his good work to improve the lives of women and youth.

I wish to extend my deep condolences to his family and friends, as well as to the people of Nigeria, for their loss.”