The President of the United States of America, Joe Biden has called for peaceful and transparent elections in Nigeria as the country heads for the polls on February 25, 2023 to elect a new president.

Mr. Biden made this call in a statement on Thursday, February 23rd, 2023 that the upcoming elections in Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, are significant and that all citizens of the country are entitled to vote for their next leader.

Affirming that the United States does not have an anointed candidate, Mr Biden implored all Nigerians, regardless of the tribe as well as cultural affinity, to exercise their fundamental freedom to cast their votes.

Joe Biden expressed his satisfaction with the Peace Agreement signed by all presidential candidates yesterday, in the presence of incumbent President Muhammodu Buhari, and commended Nigerian leaders for their commitments to a peaceful and successful transition of power.

He, however, encouraged the political actors and stakeholders to live up to the peaceful pledges they have committed themselves to, indicating that the United State will stand with Nigeria for democratic security and prosperity.

“I commend yesterday’s peace accord in Nigeria, signed by the political parties and candidates running in Nigeria’s presidential election on February 25. By signing this pledge, the parties and candidates have committed to accept the results of the election, as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission, and to support a peaceful transition of power”, He stated.

“Elections are a fundamental part of a functioning democracy, and all Nigerians deserve this chance to choose their future — freely and fairly. While the United States does not support any single candidate or party, we strongly support a peaceful and transparent process that reflects the will of the people of Nigeria. On election day, I encourage all Nigerians — no matter their religion, region, or ethnicity —to exercise this fundamental freedom and make their voices heard — including young voters, many of whom may be heading to the ballot box for the first time.

“The United States stands with the Nigerian people as they chart a path toward a more democratic, prosperous, and secure future. I appreciate President Buhari’s firm commitment that the will of the people will be respected. And in the coming days, I encourage voters to remain peaceful and patient as their ballots are tallied and urge the political parties and candidates to live up to their pledges.