Diplomat Kayode Laro, Nigeria’s envoy to France, is dead
Nigeria’s Ambassador to France, Kayode Laro, has passed away, as confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Ministry released a statement, signed by its spokesperson, Mrs. Francisca Omayuli, on Saturday, announcing Laro’s demise.
He succumbed to a prolonged illness in Paris, France, on Friday.
The statement reads: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria deeply mourns the loss of Ambassador Kayode Laro on Friday, 11th August 2023, in Paris, France. Ambassador Laro held the position of Nigeria’s Ambassador to France, concurrently accredited to Monaco. His significant contributions to enhancing Nigeria’s relations with France will be profoundly missed.
“Ambassador Kayode Laro was a dedicated career diplomat, with a service span of 35 years in the Nigerian Foreign Service, from December 1983 to December 2018. His appointment as Nigeria’s Ambassador to France in 2021, post his retirement, underscored his exceptional dedication to Nigeria’s Foreign Service.
“Throughout his distinguished career, the late Ambassador Laro served the nation in various capacities, both domestically and internationally. Notably, he served as Consul General at the Nigerian Consulate General in Atlanta, United States. He made notable strides in multilateral diplomacy during his tenure at Nigeria’s Permanent Missions to the United Nations in New York and Geneva. He also assumed the role of Director of the Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
“Ambassador Laro was a seasoned, astute diplomat, leaving an indelible mark on the Nigerian Foreign Service. His contributions will always be cherished and acknowledged.”
The statement continues, “The Federal Government of Nigeria deeply mourns his passing and extends heartfelt sympathy and condolences to his bereaved family. We pray for the strength to endure this irreplaceable loss.”
