President Buhari promises free, fair, credible elections

President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday assured Nigerians and the international community that next year’s general elections will be free, fair and creible, saying it will usher the country into a new realm of maturity, peace and unity.

He stated this while receiving letters of credence from four ambassadors including Ambassador of the Peoples Republic of Japan, Yutaka Kikuta, adding that the country’s electoral process continues to get better after each election.

“We are currently at the threshold of another general elections and after five general elections in the country since 1999, we expect that the 2019 elections will be free and fair.

“The political system is good and if people work hard they will succeed,” the President said.

President Buhari also said the increase in number of political parties that will field candidates in the 2019 elections indicates more democratic consciousness among Nigerians and willingness to serve the country.

Receiving letter of credence from the Ambassador of Russia, Alexey Shebarshin, the President noted that discussions on reviving the Ajaokuta Steel Complex, partnerships in agriculture and other trade and economic bilateral interests would be sustained and commended Russia for always standing by Nigeria.

“We have opened discussions on the Ajaokuta Steel Company and we will continue,” he added.

The President told the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Brazil, Richardo Guerra De Araujo, that the historical ties between both countries and shared potentials for growth would be further explored, with strong emphasis on economic and social development.

A statement by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, yesterday quoted Buhari as saying that the number of Nigerians in Brazil was a strong reason for deeper and richer discussions for both countries.

Receiving the letter of credence from the Ambassador of United Arab Emirates, (UAE), Fahad Al Taffaq, President Buhari assured that Nigeria remains committed to strengthening the bilateral relationship between both countries.

He also said the courtesies extended to Nigerians in the UAE was commendable, assuring that his administration will continue to strengthen business and trade relations between both countries.

Responding, Kikuta said Japan was grateful for Nigeria’s concern and support during the flood that devastated the country, promising to work hard to further enhance relations in technology, agriculture and trade.

The envoys assured that they will with the country to ensure improved relations in key sectors of the economy, while wishing Nigeria the best in the 2019 elections.