The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has sought friendly ties with the European Union delegation in Nigeria.
Atiku solicited support towards political bilateral relations in the build-up to the 2023 general election with focus on the next phase for Nigeria and the success of the elections.
The former Vice President made the declaration while speaking to The PUNCH at the EU Complex in Abuja after a closed-door meeting with the EU delegation on Thursday. He stressed that not only was unity in Nigeria critical, but the partnership with the EU was necessary for the country to reach its full potential.
“We are here for friendly discussions with the EU delegation, just a bilateral discussion. In addition, I shared my vision of a greater Nigeria and gave them an insight into my socio-economic and political agenda for our country,” he said.
On her part, the head of the EU ambassadors to Nigeria, Samuella Isiope, said the meeting was a routine dialogue with political players in Nigeria.
“This is in the framework of our regular dialogue and the engagement with the political actors and all stakeholders of the electoral process.
“We had a very fruitful meeting and exchange on many issues of interest and also for the relations between Europe and Nigeria. And of course, we have confirmed the shared interest that we have for Nigerian elections to be peaceful and credible.”
According to her, Nigeria’s democracy is the largest in Africa and one of the largest in the world. So what happens in Nigeria is important, not only for Nigerians.
She further stated that the delegation was hopeful to hosting other presidential candidates to meet with the group of the European Union ambassadors.
