Buhari Congratulates President-elect Of Benin Republic

BEVERLY HILLS, March 21, (THEWILL) – President Muhammadu Buhari has hailed the courage and statesmanship of Prime Minister Lionel Zinsou and presidential candidate of the ruling coalition, in upholding the democratic process by promptly congratulating his main challenger, Mr Patrice Talon, on his electoral victory.

He stated this while congratulating the President-elect of Benin Republic, Mr Talon, on his electoral victory in the presidential run-off on Sunday as announced by the Autonomous National Electoral Commission.

Buhari, in a statement issued on Monday by his spokesman, Femi Adesina, equally applauded the Government and people of Benin Republic on the peaceful and orderly conduct of the presidential elections.

The President also commended President Boni Yayi for his leadership throughout the electoral process and for his invaluable contribution to democratic governance in the sub-region, evidently demonstrated in the successful conduct of the presidential elections.

While expressing satisfaction with the determination and exemplary conduct demonstrated by Beninese in coming out en masse to perform their civic duties, he expressed optimism that the successful conclusion of the electoral process will mark an important step in consolidating democracy in the sub-region and become a model for other African countries to emulate.

“The President trusts that the Beninese will give the incoming government all the necessary support to succeed and reaffirms that Nigeria, as a beneficiary of the dividends of democracy, will continue to build strong partnerships with her neighbours for the peace, progress and prosperity of our citizens,” the statement noted.