Blair to Buhari: The World Is behind You
“I just want to say to the President elect that there is tremendous support for you and the country at this moment and all of us. In whatever way we can stand ready to support you and help you. It is a moment of great challenges which border on the life of the people as well as their security and so on.”
Those were the words of former British Prime Minister, Mr. Tony Blair, who held a private meeting with the President-elect, Major General Muhammadu Buhari, in Abuja on Wednesday.
Blair, who addressed journalists after the meeting said that the world stands solidly behind the President-elect as Nigeria turns a new page on May 29.
He was particularly full of praises for the manner the recent general elections were held in the country, noting that the exercise was followed by peace and tranquility.
General Buhari had met with Blair during his trip to the United Kingdom shortly before the election.
The former British Premier said that with the peaceful and credible election, Nigeria and its people have earned the respect of the international community.
He expressed confidence that the incoming government of Buhari, would achieve its set objectives.
His words: “In the last few weeks, Nigeria has earned respect throughout the whole world. 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.”
Blair said further” “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. Obviously, the future and destiny of Nigeria lies in the hand of its people.
“I just want to say to the President elect that there is tremendous support for you and the country at this moment and all of us. In whatever way we can stand ready to support you and help you. It is a moment of great challenges which border on the life of the people as well as their security and so on.”
He added: “If the same spirit and character that defined the election can be taken through these coming years to address the challenges, I think we can all have great confidence in the times ahead.
“Thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to see you again here in Nigeria and wish you and your team the best in the times head”.
The Vice President-elect, Professor Yemi Osinbajo and former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, were also at the meeting.
