Tony Blair says Nigeria is now a maturing democracy respected all over the world

FORMER British prime minister Tony Blair has applauded Nigeria as a maturing democracy that now attracts the respect of the rest of the world after the nation successfully conducted elections that saw the peaceful transition from one party to another.

 

On March 28, Nigeria successfully conducted presidential elections that saw an incumbent president lose after the All Progressives Congress's (APC) General Muhammadu Buhari defeated President Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Since then, the two parties have been working together on a smooth transition, defying predictions of a bloodbath and widespread violence.

 

Praising Nigeria for showing that is it is now a respected democracy, Mr Blair hailed the credibility and the tranquillity that defined the last general elections. Speaking in Abuja while paying a courtesy call in General Buhari, he assured the president-elect of the support of the major democracies of the world, especially Britain to enable him succeed.

 

He added that following the peaceful conduct of the elections and the ease of the transition, Nigeria and her people had earned the respect of the international community. Mr Blair also expressed confidence in the incoming government of General Buhari, saying it was determined to achieve its set objectives.

 

Mr Blair said: “In the last few weeks, Nigeria has earned respect throughout the whole world as there is enormous support for Nigeria now in the international community. The support takes into consideration the challenges that lie ahead and there is great confidence in the country.

 

“This is an election which took place in a way which the country showed the majority of democracies the spirit and character of its people and in the president-elect and vice president-elect. It is a leadership that I know is determined to do its best for the country."

 

Pointing out that the future and destiny of Nigeria lies in the hand of its people, Mt Blair added if the same spirit and character that defined the election can be taken through these coming years to address the challenges, Nigeria will have a great future. he thanked General Buhari for giving him the opportunity to visit Nigeria and wished him and his team the best in the times head.

 

General Buhari added: “We had a meeting and discussed how Britain and the United States were helping us in making sure that we conducted ourselves according to our constitution. The fact that it has been so successful is a major relief for us and to all people of conscience throughout the world."