Former US President Jimmy Carter, First to Visit Nigeria, Passes Away at 100

By Caroline Ameh

Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has died at the age of 100. The Carter Center confirmed his passing on Sunday, stating that he died peacefully at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by his family.

Carter, who entered hospice care in February 2023, was a towering figure in American history, rising from humble beginnings as a peanut farmer to the Oval Office. He led the country from 1977 to 1981, leaving a legacy marked by a commitment to human rights and global diplomacy.

“My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love,” said Chip Carter, his son, in a heartfelt statement.

Recall that Jimmy Carter made history as the first sitting U.S. president to visit Nigeria, arriving in the country on March 31, 1978. His visit, which lasted until April 3, also included a stop in Liberia, underscoring his dedication to strengthening ties with Africa.

Carter’s presidency was a mix of remarkable achievements and significant challenges. His brokering of the Camp David Accords, a peace agreement between Israel and Egypt, remains a highlight of his administration. However, his tenure was marred by domestic economic troubles, an energy crisis, and the Iranian hostage situation, which ultimately contributed to his defeat by Ronald Reagan in the 1980 election.

After leaving office, Carter reinvented his role as a former president, dedicating his life to humanitarian efforts through the Carter Center, which he founded in 1982. The organization worked to advance democracy, combat diseases like Guinea worm, and monitor elections worldwide.

In recognition of his efforts, Carter received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. His work as an international mediator and advocate for social justice reshaped his image and solidified his legacy as a global statesman.

Carter’s deep Christian faith guided his life and work. He taught Sunday school at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains well into his 90s, sharing lessons of love, justice, and service.

Despite battling cancer in 2015 and other health issues, Carter remained active and committed to his causes. He suffered a personal loss when Rosalynn Carter, his wife of 77 years, passed away in November 2023 at the age of 96. Carter attended her memorial service, appearing frail but resolute in honoring her memory.

Jimmy Carter is survived by his four children — three sons and a daughter. His passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in American history. From his leadership on the global stage to his lifelong dedication to peace and human rights, Carter’s legacy will endure as a testament to the power of compassion and perseverance.