Muhammad Sanusi Barkindo, the Secretary-Seneral of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), has passed away.
63 year old Barkindo died at about 11p.m on Tuesday.
His death was announced by Mele Kyari, group managing director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.
His death comes few hours after he was celebrated by President Muhammadu Buhari for his good service.
Kyari tweeted: “We lost our esteemed Dr Muhammad Sanusi Barkindo. He died at about 11pm yesterday 5th July 2022.
“Certainly a great loss to his immediate family, the NNPC, our country Nigeria, the OPEC and the global energy community. Burial arrangements will be announced shortly.”
Barkindo’s tenure as OPEC Secretary General was to run until July 31.
Lauding Barkindo yesterday, Buhari said: “You have indeed been a worthy ambassador of our country.
“We are proud of your achievements before and during your appointment at OPEC and the proud legacies you will leave behind.
“Your time in charge of the affairs of OPEC has been a very challenging one for the global oil industry.”