Official Press statement from Downing Street when Buhari visited PM on Monday

by Downing Street spokesperson on Monday 25 May, 2015

Muhammadu Buhari: President-elect Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Prime Minister welcomed President-elect Buhari of Nigeria to Downing Street this morning. Both leaders congratulated each other on their recent election victories and discussed the challenges facing Nigeria.

The Prime Minister stressed the UK’s wish to work for a stable, prosperous and secure Nigeria.

The leaders discussed security in the region and the fight against terrorism, particularly the threat posed by Boko Haram.

They discussed the need for a regional approach and agreed to continue working together to build the capacity of the Nigerian army, with the UK continuing to provide military training and intelligence support.

On tackling corruption, they agreed this was a priority to ensure Nigeria’s prosperity and success. The Prime Minister agreed to look at what technical assistance and support the UK could provide to the Nigerian government as it looks to undertake its reforms.

They also discussed the need to tackle organised crime and the links between the UK and Nigeria.

Finally, they talked about the challenges posed by migration from Africa to Europe and the President-elect said he would do all he could to secure Nigeria’s borders.