JUST IN: Nigerian head of UNFPA, Babatunde Osotimehin, is dead

A two paragraph statement issued on Monday by Dr. Babajide Osotimehi on behalf of the family, said the UNFPA’s boss died on Sunday. The family said that the burial of the former Nigerian minister of health would be announced later. Before he became health minister, Osotimehin, was the Director General of National Agency for Control of AIDS (NACA) and was also a former Provost of the College of Medicine at the University of Ibadan. He became the CEO of UNFPA on 19th November 2010 to serve a four-year term and was re-appointed on 21st August 2014. He was borne on 6th February 1949. According to ranking, he holds the rank of Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations. Late Osotimehin attended Igbobi College between 1966 and 1971. After his medical studies at University of Ibadan, he received a doctorate in medicine from the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom, in 1979. Ostotimehin has consistently advanced the cause of youth and gender, within the context of reproductive health and rights. Meanwhile, Nigerians have taken to the social media to express their condolences. The Ministry of Budget, Kaduna state, tweeted: “We commiserate with the family of former Nigerian Minister of Health & Head of UNFPA, Babatunde Osotimehin, a friend of KDSG who died today.’’ Official Sadok‏ said: “Still in shock! Babatunde Osotimehin, former health minister is dead!! Nigeria indeed has lost a gem. RIP.’’ “RIP our dear Renowned Babatunde Osotimehin…Condolences to the family!,’’ Prince Obi‏ tweeted.]]>