File photo: Shagari welcomes Buhari to his home

Former President Shehu Shagari has congratulated the president-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari over his victory at the just-concluded presidential election.

NAN reports that this was contained in a congratulatory message signed by Shagari, and made available to newsmen in Sokoto on Friday.

“Let me join my compatriots, former Nigerian leaders, millions of Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora, world leaders and the international community in congratulating the President-elect.

“Your victory at the polls is an indication of your track record of service to your fatherland which endeared you to the Nigerian populace who massively voted for you.

“As a patriot, I trust that you will put your vast experience and knowledge of the country, its people and the connections you established with other countries of Africa and the world during your almost two years of leadership of the country to bear in the running of a united and all-inclusive government that will revitalise all sectors of Nigerian life.”

The elder statesman also congratulated all Nigerians for peaceful polls and “the discipline, tolerance and maturity they exhibited before, during and after the last elections.”

He prayed to God to guide Buhari in the effective discharge of his duties.
Shagari commended President Goodluck Jonathan for his “foresight, courage, maturity and patriotism” in conceding defeat.

“This singular act has earned him my respect and that of the people not only in Nigeria but the World over.”