President Bola Tinubu on Friday extended his warm congratulations to Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, on the victory of his party in the United Kingdom general election.
Tinubu in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, said “As a former leader of the opposition in Nigeria, President Tinubu specially notes the determination and courage the incoming Prime Minister of the United Kingdom demonstrated throughout his years in the opposition and as the leader of the Labour Party.”
“The President states that the party’s ability to reform, mobilize, and position itself for victory after 14 years clearly affirms the leadership qualities of Sir Starmer.
“President Tinubu also congratulates the citizens and the government of the United Kingdom, describing the Kingdom as an abiding model of democracy and Nigeria’s long-standing partner.
“The President looks forward to deepening relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom in mutual areas of interest and in strengthening democratic institutions, as well as in building a safer and more prosperous future for the people of both countries.”
Meanwhile, here are some of the reactions to his historic win from other world leaders:
French President Emmanuel Macron posted on X, “Pleased with our first discussion. We will continue the work begun with the UK for our bilateral cooperation, for peace and security in Europe, for the climate and for AI.”
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris said, “Keir Starmer has brought the Labour Party a comprehensive victory … The relationship between Ireland and the UK is deeply consequential for all people across these islands,” Harris said in a statement. “I look forward to early engagement with the incoming Prime Minister.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy posted on X, “Ukraine and the United Kingdom have been and will continue to be reliable allies through thick and thin. We will continue to defend and advance our common values of life, freedom, and a rules-based international order.
“I wish the incoming government every success both in domestic affairs and in solidifying the UK’s leadership on the world stage. I look forward to working closely together on strengthening the Ukraine-UK partnership and restoring international peace and security.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated in his post on X, “I look forward to working with you in a constructive partnership to address common challenges and strengthen European security.”
European Council President Charles Michel said, “The European Union and the UK are crucial partners, cooperating in all areas of mutual interest for our citizens. I look forward to working with you and your government in this new cycle for the UK.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, in his address, said, “We have a strong relationship between our two countries, but in Sir Keir Starmer and Angela Rayner and so many others who I am very familiar with in the British Labour Party, I look forward very much to working with them.
“They have very similar views to us on a range of issues. I’m sure we’ll work closely on AUKUS, where we worked very closely as well with the former government.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in his post on X, said “Lots of work ahead to build a more progressive, fair future for people on both sides of the Atlantic. Let’s get to it, my friend.”
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, “New Zealand and the UK are great friends and can do so much more together. I look forward to working on every opportunity together as prime minister. Thank you @RishiSunak for your service to your nation and friendship to New Zealand,” posted on X.