Biden Hails Buhari for Promoting Democracy in Africa

* Describes him as real model for democracy 

Deji Elumoye in Abuja 

United States President Joe Biden has hailed President Muhammadu Buhari for his efforts in deepening democracy not only in Nigeria, but also in Africa.

The US President spoke in Washington DC while meeting with leaders of six African countries billed to have elections in 2023 on the sidelines of the US-Africa Leaders Summit taking place in the US capital.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by presidential spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, President Biden said he had followed the trajectory of the Nigerian leader since 2015 when he was elected president from being an opposition leader at a time he (Biden) was a vice-president.  

He added that it was very heartening that Nigeria is quite a model for democracy, especially the fact that President Buhari is not seeking a third term.

The US President therefore encouraged Buhari and the Nigerian electoral umpire to continue to be totally non-partisan.

Biden said the meeting with the select African leaders including those of Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Liberia, Madagascar and Sierra Leone was to discuss elections and democracy in Africa, share experiences with the United States on the forthcoming elections, as well as encourage the countries to continue with the democratic process.

He pointed out that he really understands the challenges facing the countries and expressed the willingness of the United States to support them in every area assistance may be required.

Responding, Buhari expressed his appreciation to the US President for his positive remarks and congratulated him on attaining the peak of his political career which is the presidency of the country. 

He also thanked him for organising the summit with African leaders and wished him well in all his endeavours.