Latest EU Statement on Nigeria

Description:

Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission, issued the following statement today:

"The European Union notes the Presidential transition which has occurred in Nigeria following the death of the late President Umaru Yar'Adua and the swearing in of H.E. Goodluck Jonathan as the new President of Nigeria and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, as well as the appointment of H.E. Alhaji Namadi Sambo as new Vice President.

The European Union congratulates Nigeria on the transition which has occurred in a peaceful and orderly manner in full respect of the Constitution and the rule of law.

The European Union welcomes the commitment which H.E. President Jonathan has expressed to the following key areas of governance: electoral reform; anti-corruption; stability and development in the Niger Delta region; and the power sector.

The European Union reaffirms its engagement to assist in the swift implementation of this agenda in the framework of the "Nigeria-EU Joint Way Forward" political dialogue, and ongoing development cooperation. The EU also encourages further initiatives by the Nigerian Federal Authorities in the area of inter ethnic and inter religious dialogue.

The European Union supports Nigeria's continuous efforts towards the consolidation of democracy and the rule of law."