On this day, we say rest in peace to former UN Secretary-General and Nobel Peace Prize recipient, Kofi Annan, who passed away at age 80.

According to CNN, Annan, who was the first black African to lead the United Nations, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning with his wife and three children by his side after a short illness.

The Kofi Annan Foundation posted this official statement on Twitter:

For those who may not know, Annan who was born in Ghana in 1938, was recognized as a "global statesman and a deeply committed internationalist who fought throughout his life for a fairer, more peaceful world," according to foundation’s statement.

"During his distinguished career and leadership of the United Nations, he was an ardent champion of peace, sustainable development, human rights and the rule of law."

BET extends its deepest love, prayers and light to the Annan family at this time.