President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua has congratulated the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Gordon Brown, over his assumption of office. He equally congratulated his predecessor, Tony Blair, for a successful tenure.
The President, in a congratulatory letter called for the strengthening of the already existing relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom and prayed that the Federal Government continues to receive the support and cooperation of the Government of the United Kingdom .
The President in the letter addressed to Prime Minister Brown, stated that “you are well aware that Nigeria and the United Kingdom have a special relationship borne out of history and its attendant affinities. It is therefore, my wish and sincere hope that during your tenure, this special relationship will be further strengthened and sustained at the mutual benefit of our two peoples.
“I look forward to meeting with you in the very near future, and, as I also settle into office, it is my expectation that my government will continue to count on the support and cooperation of the people and government of the United Kingdom.”
In another letter addressed to Blair, President Yar’Adua noted that the former Prime Minister’s tenure in office was characterised not only by some of the best domestic policies witnessed in the annals of British history, but also the consolidation of the historic relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. Your role in the pursuit of global peace, security and development will for a long time be remembered.
Yar’Adua noted that for Nigerians in particular and Africans in general, Blair’s initiative, which culminated in the Gleneagles commitment of the G8 to Africa, remains a crucial framework for development and alleviation of poverty in the continent.
The President expressed optimism that even out of office, Blair will continue to use his influence to leverage support for this noble commitment.
While congratulating Blair on his successful conclusion of a very memorable tenure of office as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, President Yar’Adua wished him success in his future endeavours.
Jun292007