Press Releases: Secretary Pompeo’s Calls With Nigerian Presidential Candidates President Muhammadu Buhari and Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar
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The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino:
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo spoke with major Nigerian presidential candidates President Muhammadu Buhari and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in advance of the country’s February 16 presidential election. The Secretary noted the deep and long-standing partnership between the United States and Nigeria, Africa’s most-populous democracy and largest economy. He underscored U.S. support for the Nigerian goal of free, fair, transparent, and peaceful elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian people. He welcomed both candidates’ signing of a peace pledge and public commitment to renounce violence and to accept the results of a credible process. The Secretary noted the conduct of the elections is critical for the future of democracy in Nigeria and across Africa.