The President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Jacob Zuma, has congratulated the incoming President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr Muhammadu Buhari, on his successful election following the Presidential Elections held on 28 March 2015.

President Zuma has also commended the outgoing President of Nigeria, His Excellency Goodluck Jonathan, for his leadership and commitment to consolidating democracy, peace and stability in Nigeria.

President Jonathan today (31 March 2015) conceded defeat; a move described by President Zuma as indicative of President Jonathan's readiness and commitment to ensure a smooth transfer of power with a view to consolidating democracy, peace and stability in Nigeria.

At the same time, President Zuma said: "Like the rest of the international community, the Governent and the people of the Republic of South Africa will await the official announcement from the Independent National Electoral Commission of Nigeria regarding the final outcome of the elections. Meanwhile, we congratulate the Nigerian people on a successful election and look toward to working with the new government to enhance our existing strong historical ties".

South Africa and Nigeria enjoy close bilateral relations structured under the Bi-National Commission (BNC) that was officially inaugurated in 1999. South Africa's bilateral partnership with Nigeria spans across a wide spectrum covering political, economic and social cooperation.

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION