By Olukayode Idowu
The Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Mahamat Saleh Annadif have emphasized the need for all Nigerian actors to remain mobilized so that Nigeria continues to play her major role in the consolidation of peace and democracy in West African and in the entire Africa.
Annadif, who had series of meeting with the Nigerian authorities, the main political parties, representatives of civil society organizations, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), the United Nations country team, as well as the diplomatic corps during his a two-day working visit to Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, disclosed that the objective of the mission is to strengthen the partnership between the United Nations and Nigeria, particularly in view of the organisation of the general elections scheduled for 2023.
During his various meetings, Mr. Annadif stressed the importance of the position of Nigeria in West Africa and the Sahel. He recalled the need for all Nigerian actors to remain mobilized so that Nigeria continues to play this major role in the consolidation of peace and democracy in the sub-region, and in the continent. In this regard, he called on the international community to enhance its support to Nigeria, which is facing many challenges, particularly security ones.
As the general elections approach, the Special Representative praised the work done by the Independent National Elections Commission (INEC) towards the organisation of peaceful, credible and transparent elections.
Annadif indicated that the next elections constitute a major opportunity to strengthen peace, democracy, development and good governance in Nigeria. He encouraged the Nigerian authorities, as well as all actors to redouble their efforts to ensure the effective participation of women and youth in the electoral process.
The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel commended the United Nations country team for the quality of its engagement with the people of Nigeria. He reaffirmed United Nations’ engagement to continue working closely with the government and people of Nigeria towards consolidating peace, development and democracy.
