Tinubu Sends Delegation to Jesse Jackson's Funeral

President Bola Tinubu has dispatched a five-person delegation to represent Nigeria at the final burial rites of Reverend Jesse Jackson, an American civil rights leader and former presidential candidate, who passed away at the age of 84 on February 17, 2026. The delegation, led by George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, includes Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy; Brian Brown, Special Presidential Envoy for Global Pan-African Affairs; and Sola Enikanolay, Senior Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs and International Relations.

The delegation is tasked with delivering President Tinubu's message of condolence to Jackson's family. Tinubu previously described Jackson as a great friend of Nigeria and Africa, highlighting his moral voice and significant role in resisting apartheid in South Africa.

Jackson's burial program is set to begin on February 26, 2026, with services held in Chicago and South Carolina.