President Muhammadu Buhari has been conferred with Niger Republic’s highest national honour, Grand Croix Des Ordre National Du Niger.
He was conferred with the honour by the country’s outgoing President, Mahamadou Issoufou.
Issoufou said the honour was bestowed on Buhari because of his “fraternity, vigour, patriotism and determination to move Africa forward, starting from the West Coast”.
The outgoing President thanked Buhari him and Nigerians for the support he received as leader of his country for ten years, particularly during Buhari’s time as Chairman of ECOWAS, describing Nigeria as a “second home.”
Delivering his remarks, President Buhari felicitated with the outgoing leader for upholding the tenets of democracy, improving the economy of his country and consolidating the good relations that existed between both countries.
The President was quoted as saying that “Mr. President, let me start by congratulating you on the successful completion of your second term as President of our sister country, the Republic of Niger.
“I also congratulate the good people of Niger for the successful conduct of a free, fair and credible election.
“The achievements during your tenure as President have been widely acclaimed including through your recent award of the Mo Ibrahim Prize.
“You have earned the respect and affection of your people at home and your brethren across the border in Nigeria.”
Buhari said his first visit after assuming office in 2015 was to the Niger Republic, adding that the choice underscored the value and quality of relations between both countries.
“Nigeria-Niger relations are based on a long common border and shared cultural and historical roots. Relations between the two countries have, over the years, been very cordial and fraternal. There is a spirit of good neighbourliness between us.”
He highlighted the cultural similarity such as common languages – Hausa, Kanuri and Fulfude – and a border of 1500 kilometres.
The Nigerian leader urged the President-elect of Niger to build on the achievements of his predecessor in office.
