The Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari has sent a message to the Catholic Pontiff, Pope Francis, President and members of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, and the entire Catholic community in the country, over the demise of the Bishop Emeritus of Sokoto, Most Rev Kevin Joseph Aje.

The 85-year-old Bishop Emeritus served as a priest for almost 50 years, retiring at Sokoto in 2011.

According to Femi Adesina, the President’s Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Buhari recalls Bishop Aje’s steadfast advocacy of cordiality between Christians and Muslims in the country.

Buhari also recalled how the Bishop was a peacemaker and bridge builder, stating further that this would resonate whenever the departed cleric comes to mind.

The statement made available on Thursday revealed that the President recommended the sterling virtues of Most Rev Aje to younger priests and preachers, and to all Nigerians at large.

He described the Bishop Emeritus as a “great spiritual father,” who has left his footprints on the sands of time.

President Buhari also prayed for the repose of the soul of the Bishop Emeritus.