Abuja — President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed appreciation to the Chadian President, Mr. Idris Deby Itno for the brotherly gesture of a condolence visit to Nigeria on the death of President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua.The chadian leader was at the villa yesterday.

He said, "as a government, on behalf of the family and people of Nigeria , we appreciate this visit and are grateful for the honour done to us."

"Our late president meant well for Africa , but unfortunately, he could not stay to the end of his tenure to implement his plans. I will carry on the remaining part of the tenure, and I will be counting on leaders like you to help me succeed in this task", he stated.

President Jonathan agreed with President Deby that a more appropriate time would become available for discussions on bilateral issues, and wished him a safe return to his country.

Earlier, President Deby said, "I have come to express my sincere condolences on this loss suffered by you, the immediate family, the Government and people of Nigeria ", describing his visit as a "sacred duty to a brotherly nation".

President Deby Itno said a special prayer for the repose of the soul of the late president, as well as comfort for the family, Government and people of Nigeria .

He also congratulated President Jonathan for assuming the leadership of Nigeria , and wished him success.

The Chadian President promised to send a special envoy to President Jonathan on the Lake Chad Basin Commission and related issues.