The U.S Vice President, Mr Joe Biden, on Thursday urged the President-Elect, Muhammadu Buhari, to continue to foster a smooth, inclusive and peaceful transition with President Goodluck Jonathan.
A statement issued by the U.S Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria said that Biden made the appeal when he personally called Buhari to congratulate him on his victory at the poll.
“Vice President Biden spoke with Nigerian President-Elect, Muhammadu Buhari, to congratulate him on his victory in the recent Nigerian elections.
“The Vice President commended the President-Elect for his leadership in helping to ensure the elections were conducted peacefully.
“He urged Buhari to continue to foster a smooth, inclusive and peaceful transition with President Jonathan,’’ it said.
The statement also quoted Biden to have affirmed his government’s commitment to expand collaboration with Nigeria on issues of common concern, including economic and security matters.
“The Vice President also expressed the willingness of the U.S. to partner more closely with Nigeria to strengthen its economy,” it added.
The statement also expressed the State Department’s continued support for Nigeria’s efforts to counter Boko Haram and in the recovering of those being held hostage by the group.
It also quoted Biden to have given his government’s assurances to ensure the protection of the Nigerian civilian population.
