By Balarabe Oshiafi
The importance of Nigeria as a towering African nation would make the European union continue to maintain and sustain it’s cordial relationship with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
It was a demonstration of this stance that engendered Tuesday’s visit of the outgoing European Union (EU) Ambassador to Nigeria, Samuela Isopi to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
While speaking during the visit which witnessed sharing of workplace memories between INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu and herself, she reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting the aspirations of the Nigerian people for a stronger and deeper democracy, noting that the partnership between the EU and INEC has been placed on a sefl sustaining echelon.
Ambassador Isopi informed the media that the visit marks the end of her diplomatic tenure in Nigeria after serving for three years as the EU’s envoy to Nigeria and Nicaragua.
She affirmed her privilege and honor to serve Nigerian people and emphasized the importance of the partnership that now exists between the EU and INEC.
According to her, INEC had played a significant role in her diplomatic work in Nigeria and has been a crucial partner in the EU’s efforts to support and strengthen Nigerian democracy.
The EU Ambassador said maintaining and deepening the partnership remains a core priority for the EU, reflecting on the successful collaboration under the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EUSDGN) initiative.
She commended the open and frank nature of the EU’s relationship with INEC, likening it to a family where differing viewpoints can be discussed and resolved amicably.
Ambassador Isopi expressed her gratitude to Professor. Yakubu and the Commission for their strong partnership, acknowledging the significant progress made together in advancing democratic governance in Nigeria.
Speaking , the INEC Chairman recognized Ambassador Isopi’s significant contributions as the EU’s representative in Nigeria and West Africa.
He expressed his gratitude to the outgoing envoy for her candour and sense of duty in strengthening the relationship between the EU and its allies.
