Catriona Laing, outgoing British High Commissioner to Nigeria has said that despite setbacks to the presidential election held on 25 February 2023, Nigeria should be proud of the election as she described the election as fascinating.
While speaking with Journalists in Abuja after a courtesy visit to the president of the senate, Senator Ahmad lawan, she pointed out that even though there were hitches to the presidential election, the election, however, holds a bright future for the country. In her words,
“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 am impressed with Nigeria’s democratic journey. “
“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 maybe even four. I think Nigerians as well should realise that their votes count”, she said.
She also applauded Nigerians for being able to stand firm in the face of difficult times. In her words, “There had been some tough times. We had COVID-19, and insecurity has got a lot more since I was here. Nigerian people are incredibly resilient. I remain very optimistic about Nigeria’s future. It’s been a very wonderful tour and very sad to be going.”
Senator Ahmad lawn in his earlier remarks praised the British envoy for her positive impact to Nigeria and urged her to help improve bilateral relations between Britain and Nigeria.
In his words, “Nigeria and Britain have come a long way in very cordial and diplomatic relations over the years, the tradition we believe, high rated diplomat like you can help to foster and strengthen.”