The EU Presidency regards the federal elections due to be held in the Federal Republic of Nigeria on 21 April as especially important, not only for the further development of Africa's most populous country but also for the entire region. A democratic election process free of disruptions is a guarantee of peace and progress on our neighbouring continent.
Following the elections of 14 April in Nigeria's 36 federal states, there are still doubts and uncertainties concerning the state of preparations for the federal elections on 21 April.
If the federal elections scheduled for this coming Saturday go off in an orderly, transparent and credible manner, this would provide the pluralistic and free democratic order in Nigeria with strong impetus.
The EU Presidency calls upon the authorities responsible for organizing these elections, as well as all participating parties, to help ensure that the elections are peaceful, fair and transparent.
