President Bola Tinubu has established a five-person delegation to attend the burial ceremonies of the late American civil rights leader, activist, and former presidential candidate, Reverend Jesse Jackson, on behalf of Nigeria.
Reverend Jackson, who passed away at the age of 84 on February 17, 2026, in Chicago, was widely acknowledged for his extensive contributions over several decades to the fight for civil rights, social justice, and global equality.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the President’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, announced that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, would lead the Nigerian delegation.
The delegation's other members include the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; the Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; the Special Presidential Envoy for Global and Pan- African Affairs, Brian Browne; and Ambassador Sola Enikanolaye, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations.
According to the statement, the delegation is tasked with delivering President Tinubu's message of sympathy to the Jackson family, representing the Nigerian government and its citizens.
The funeral proceedings for the distinguished civil rights leader commenced on February 26 with a lying-in-state event held at the headquarters of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition in Chicago.
Further commemorative services are scheduled to take place in both South Carolina and Washington, D.C. A second lying-in-state is also planned at the South Carolina Statehouse from March 1 to March 5.
A public event, named “People’s Celebration,” is slated for March 6 at the House of Hope in Chicago, followed by a private homegoing ceremony on March 7 at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.
In a previous statement, President Tinubu recognised Jackson as a staunch supporter of Nigeria and Africa, whose impact extended beyond the borders of the United States.
He highlighted the late activist as a significant moral voice who played a crucial role in international movements against apartheid in South Africa.
Tinubu also reflected on Jackson's advocacy for the release of Nelson Mandela and other leaders associated with the African National Congress, as well as his efforts in galvanizing international backing for sanctions against the apartheid regime.
The President stated that Jackson's enduring legacy of bravery, justice, and advocacy for human dignity would continue to serve as an inspiration for generations worldwide.
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