MEDIA RELEASE

MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS
ALEXANDER DOWNER

FA19

3 March 1999

Nigeria: Presidential Elections

I am pleased to note that presidential elections in Nigeria on 27 February have resulted in a clear outcome. I would like to congratulate former General Olusegun Obasanjo on his election as the next President of the Republic of Nigeria.

The elections marked the latest and a very important step in Nigeria's transition to democratic civilian government.

Australia looks forward to the peaceful conclusion of the transition process and the restoration of democracy in Nigeria when the new President is sworn in on 29 May.

While there have been some reports of irregularities, the election was a considerable achievement in Nigeria's transition to civilian rule. I would especially like to acknowledge the role played by General Abubakar, the current Nigerian Head of State, for his part in this process.

For further information: 

Minister - Innes Willox - 0419 209 860
Department - Geoff Leach - 02 6261 1111