STATE HOUSE PRESS STATEMENT

STATE HOUSE PRESS STATEMENT

PRESIDENT JONATHAN CALLS ON GLOBAL COMMUNITY, NIGERIANS TO SUPPORT BUHARI’S GOVERNMENT

President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan on Wednesday in Abuja called on the global community and Nigerians to support the incoming government of President-elect Muhammadu Buhari.

Receiving members of the African Ambassadors Group, who were on a farewell and solidarity visit to the State House, the President said the incoming government will need the cooperation and commitment of the global community and Nigerians to effectively deliver on its promises to the people.

``The President-elect is not new to governance in Africa so I want you to show the same commitment to him as you have to me. The President-elect knows that our commitment is always to project Africa. I am urging you to extend the same warmth and solidarity you have shown to me to him,’’ he said.

President Jonathan further enjoined African leaders to encourage trade within the continent by building infrastructures and institutions that promote trade and relationships.

The President recalled working extensively for more than five years with other African Presidents to forestall crisis in some African countries, especially in the West African sub-region, and also leading peace efforts in some of the countries like Cote ‘d’Ivoire, Mali and Guinea Bissau.

``I have been involved in solving many problems in African countries for more than five years and I know the enormity and cost of conflicts, especially on the citizenry. We cannot afford that in Nigeria.

``If we were to have a political conflict in Nigeria, I am not sure the sub-region will be able to accommodate our citizens. My commitment is to always put the country before my personal ambition and that is what I have demonstrated,’’ he said.