Nigerian business magnate Antonio Deinde Fernandez has died aged 79. Announcing his demise in a tweet at about 9.pm on Tuesday, Nigerian Journalist/Publisher, Dele Momodu, said:

“Nigeria, and indeed Africa, has just lost one of its greatest sons; Ambassador Chief Antonio Dehinde Fernandez is gone!”

He late diplomat was born in Lagos southwestern Nigeria into the Fernandez family that originated from Brazil and the first European migrant to Lagos State. He has been in diplomacy since 1996. His family are yet to confirm his demise.

May his soul rest in peace.