Following confirmation in the early hours of today that Muhammadu Buhari has won the Nigerian elections, Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said:

I congratulate Muhammadu Buhari on his election victory as the next President of Nigeria and also President Goodluck Jonathan for the statesmanship he has shown in delivering free and fair elections and accepting the result.

It is now important for both parties to ensure the transition to a new government remains peaceful. Britain has a very deep relationship with Nigeria and we look forward to working with the new president, his government and the people of Nigeria in their aspirations for prosperity.

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