Johannesburg, South Africa: Former South African President Nelson Mandela has been re-admitted to hospital with a recurrence of a lung infection.
A statement from the South African presidency said Mr Mandela, 94, had been admitted just before midnight.
Mr Mandela spent 18 days in hospital in December undergoing treatment for a lung infection and gallstones.
He is widely regarded as the father of the nation for leading the struggle against apartheid.
Mr Mandela served as South Africa's first black president from 1994 to 1999. However, his health has caused concern for some time.
The government statement said President Jacob Zuma wished "Madiba" - as Mr Mandela is affectionately known in South Africa - a speedy recovery.
"We appeal to the people of South Africa and the world to pray for our beloved Madiba and his family and to keep them in their thoughts. We have full confidence in the medical team and know that they will do everything possible to ensure recovery," President Zuma said.
Mr Mandela first contracted tuberculosis in the 1980s while detained in Robben Island prison.
In January 2011, he was treated for a chest infection in Johannesburg. Earlier this month he spent a night in hospital in the capital Pretoria following a check-up.
-BBC
