NIGERIA IS RICH BUT NIGERIANS ARE POOR- EU ENVOY TO BUHARI

The European Union (EU) on Saturday urged the President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari to ensure that Nigerians enjoyed the dividends of democracy.
The EU Ambassador to Nigeria and Ecowas, Mr. Michel Arrion made the call at the Europe Day 2015 in Abuja.
Mr. Michel Arrion explained that unless the common man's standard of living improved, democracy would mean nothing to him/her.
"But democracy only makes meaning to the common man to the extent that it delivers good governance, creates opportunities and improves the quality of living.
"Nigeria is rich, but Nigerians are poor. The incoming administration will have a lot to do in this regard.
"It must ensure that Nigeria's massive population is galvanised into a formidable productive force that will generate wealth that is equally or rather equitably shared among all citizens", Arrion said.
Mr. Arrion further said that as the new government comes on stream, the world will want to see basic freedoms that distinguish democratic societies,
"The government must ensure that the basic freedoms including economic rights and welfare are not the exclusive preserve of a privileged few".
The EU Envoy reminded Buhari of his promises pre and post election to pursue three major priorities .
The first objective for Buhari to do is to "swiftly end the insurgency in the North East and restore peace and stability"
The second priority is to completely eradicate corruption while the third is to put in place policies that will put Nigeria's economy on a proper footing.
Mr. Arrion said these goals match European Union's vision for Nigeria.
"Let me add a fourth objective that is very important for European Union: regional integration", he said.
"Iam delighted to state that Nigeria and EU do share very strong relations of mutual trust and partnership".
"And Iam very happy to confirm the excellent quality of our local political and policy dialogue between the 21 European Ambassadors and High Commissioner and the Government of Nigeria".
The EU Envoy commended Nigeria and Nigerians for a successful general election.
"We are happy that Nigeria has got it right, and look forward to other African countries following its good example".
Mr. Arrion commended President Goodluck Jonathan for gracefully "accepting the outcome of the election so that his country can move on".

Michel Arrion