From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated President-elect of Republic of Benin, Mr Patrice Talon, on his victory on Sunday.
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, in a statement, said the president also commended the Autonomous National Electoral Commission, the Government and people of Benin Republic on the peaceful and orderly conduct of the presidential elections.
He, particularly, commended the Prime Minister, Lionel Zinsou and presidential candidate of the ruling coalition for his courage and statesmanship, in upholding the democratic process by promptly congratulating his main challenger, Mr Talon, on his victory.
Buhari also singled out President Boni Yayi for commendation, describing his leadership throughout the electoral process and his contribution as “invaluable” to democratic governance in the sub-region, evidently demonstrated in the successful conduct of the presidential elections.
He said he is encouraged by the determination and exemplary conduct demonstrated by Beninese in coming out en masse to perform their civic duties.
He said the successful conclusion of the electoral process marks an important step in consolidating democracy in the sub-region and a beacon for other African countries to emulate.
Buhari urged the people of the Republic of Benin to give the incoming government all the necessary support to succeed and reaffirmed that Nigeria, as a beneficiary of the dividends of democracy, would continue to build strong partnerships with her neighbours for the peace, progress and prosperity of our citizens.