President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed on his election as the new president of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Earlier on Saturday, Mohamed was elected by a federal supreme council of the UAE following the death of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who had been the president for 18 years.
In a statement issued by Garba Shehu, senior special assistant to the president on media and publicity, Buhari said Nigeria looks forward to sharing stronger ties with the UAE.
“I know that stepping into the shoes of the late Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed is no easy task because of his vast experience and visionary skills, but I’m confident that his successor is equally well equipped for the task ahead,” Buhari was quoted as saying.
“Your predecessor made a mark in the impressive transformation of the UAE, making it a vast business and tourist attraction, building infrastructure, and creating one of the best living standards in the world. I’m confident that you’re going to build on this great legacy created by your half-brother.”
Buhari said Nigeria hopes for greater cooperation with the UAE in tracking illegal assets and tracing terrorist funds.
“Dubai is a reliable partner for the progress of Nigeria and I’m confident that under the new leader, such cooperation will grow bigger and stronger,” the president said.
“I wish President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed God’s guidance and wisdom in the discharge of this enormous responsibility.”
