Buhari promises Nigerians fair poll in Christmas message
Monday December 24 2018
Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari. FILE | NATION MEDIA GROUP
President Muhammadu Buhari has promised Nigerians that his administration would deliver a free and fair election next year.
In his Christmas message Monday, President Buhari vowed to keep his word on the General Election expected in February.
“My avowed commitment to free, fair, credible and violence-free polls is not a ruse or yet another vain political promise. My word is my bond.
“It is a sworn declaration on the advancement of Nigeria, the future and safety of our young and unborn generations."
The president rekindled hope of a better Nigeria in the future, amid the numerous current challenges.
Human beings
“We must not also forget that what lies ahead of us as a nation is better than whatever we must have experienced in the past,’’ he said.
The president noted that Nigerians had in 2018 experienced mixed blessings, typical of human beings.
On the pleasant side, he said, the economy made significant progress since coming out of recession and the faithful implementation of the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan.
"Agricultural revolution has seen a vastly improved local production to the detriment of importation, while we have achieved surplus in our trade balance. Similarly, infrastructural deficit has been greatly reduced with significant improvements in roads, railways, aviation and power.
"In addition, we have not relented in the fight against corruption while the business environment has been improved through institutional reforms.’’
Exchange gifts
The Nigerian leader acknowledged that the country experienced unnecessary deaths caused by violent clashes between neighbours, who ordinarily should support each another.
He wished all Nigerians, particularly the Christians, a joyous occasion commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.
The president urged his compatriots to exchange gifts, pray and visit loved ones, and remember many others who could not be with their families this time.
"Our brave Armed Forces, and other security men and women who make incredible sacrifices to keep us safe, the aged, the sick, physically challenged persons, all deserve our goodwill in this season of love and sharing,'' said the president.
"Together we can show generosity to our neighbours and demonstrate the diversity that makes Nigeria unique – a land with a beautiful climate and vegetation, beaming with an energetic and creative youth population."