The outgoing British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing, has described Nigeria’s politics as fascinating, saying it offered a better future for democratic governance in the country.
She stated this amid litigations trailing the Presidential and National Assembly elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on February 25.
The British envoy stated this while speaking with journalists after she paid a courtesy visit to the President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, yesterday.
She said despite controversies that greeted the process of the election by some political actors, the nation’s politics was fascinating and portended bright future for the country.
“I made very good friends. I love Nigerian music a lot. The culture here is so rich. Secondly, the politics in Nigeria is so fascinating. I was here till the last election and I finished with this election and I’m impressed with Nigeria’s democratic journey. Yes, a bit set backs, but in over all, I see this as positive and Nigeria should be proud but with a remarkable difference, when I came in 2019.
“Nigeria is the biggest democracy in Africa. The world watches your progress to democracy. Though there were some disappointments in the last election, overall, every Nigerian should be proud because since 1999, Nigeria has been on the right track as far as participatory democracy is concerned.
“The election here is very different and fascinating as you are moving to three party system or may be even four. I think Nigerians as well should realise that their votes count,” she said, even as she saluted Nigerians for being resilient at all times of difficulties.
According to her, “There had been some tough times. We had COVID-19, insecurity has got a lot more since I was here. Nigerian people are incredibly resilient. I remain very optimistic to Nigeria’s future. So, it’s been very wonderful tour and very sad to be going,” she added.
Earlier, Lawan commended the British envoy on her positive disposition to the country, and tasked her to help in strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Britain.
Lawan said, “Nigeria and Britain have come a long way very cordial and diplomatic relations over the years. The tradition we believe high rated diplomat like you can help to foster and strengthening,” he said.
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
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