The United Kingdomis closely watching the democratic process in Nigeria and will take more than a passing interest in the forthcoming general elections.
The British High Commissioner, Richard Montgomery, made the declaration on Thursday in Abuja during a courtesy visit to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda.
Dr Montgomery, who clarified that the United Kingdom would continue to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty, however noted that whatever happens in Nigeria is of great interest to London because of its huge financial and security investments in the country.
Aside from the general elections, the British High Commissioner revealed that his government would also send delegations to observe the off-season governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states.
He said: “We will send delegations to observe the elections because these will be the final off-season governorship elections before the general elections next year. We want to see peaceful, credible and successful elections.”
“We will always approach Nigeria with respect. Nigeria is by far the largest country in Africa and what happens here matters greatly. We have significant economic, financial and security investments in Nigeria, and therefore Nigeria’s stability and democratic success are important to us.”
He reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s support for Nigeria’s democratic institutions and expressed optimism about the country’s electoral future.
“We are investing in Nigeria’s democracy because we believe in its future. We wish Nigeria well as events unfold towards the next general election.”
Earlier, while welcoming his guest, the APC National Chairman assured that his leadership would ensure that the party’s candidates in the off-season elections focus on issue-based campaigns, devoid of incendiary remarks that could heat up the polity.
Professor Yilwatda reiterated the party’s commitment to peace and responsible political engagement.
“On Ekiti and Osun, we are discussing issues, not sentiments. We are very conscious of the need to avoid actions that could destabilize any part of the country. Our focus is to ensure that both states remain peaceful and stable before, during and after the elections.”
The APC National Chairman described Nigeria as a country whose stability is of immense significance not only to Africa but also to the wider world.
“We welcome you to our party secretariat. Nigeria is strategic not just to Africa but to the entire world. The stability of Nigeria is important to both Africa and Europe. Any instability in Nigeria will have far-reaching consequences across the continent. Therefore, we must all work together to support the stability and progress of our country.”
Professor Yilwatda, who maintained that Nigeria remains a critical pillar for economic growth, security and democratic development across Africa, noted that strong democratic institutions are essential for sustaining national development.
“We want our foreign partners to continue supporting democratic institutions in Nigeria. Many African countries draw strength from Nigeria’s leadership and stability, and we must continue to strengthen our democratic processes for the benefit of our people and the continent,” he added.