Nigeria (Hansard, 17 March 1999)

§ Mr. Vaz
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the recent elections in Nigeria. [76979]

§ Mr. Tony Lloyd
We welcome the progress of Nigeria's transition programme back to civilian democratic rule. While international observers noted some irregularities and logistical difficulties in the recent elections, they have commented that these did not affect the overall result, which we judge was a genuine reflection of the will of the Nigerian people. During his recent visit to Nigeria, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs congratulated President-elect Obasanjo on his victory. We hope that he will be able to visit the United Kingdom soon.

§ Mr. Vaz
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on his meeting with President-elect Obasanjo. [76980]

§ Mr. Tony Lloyd
My right hon. Friend the Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary met President-elect Obasanjo in Nigeria on 10 March. The Foreign Secretary congratulated the President-elect on his election victory and highlighted the efforts Britain was making to help the transition process. The Foreign Secretary announced Britain's new pledge of £750,000 to help prepare the military for their role under a democratic government. My right hon. Friend reaffirmed that the United Kingdom would continue to support Nigeria's efforts to consolidate lasting democracy and prosperity. We would urge our partners in the Commonwealth to lift Nigeria's suspension immediately.
Other topics discussed included Nigeria's economy and future support for the democratically elected government in Sierra Leone.

§ Mr. Vaz
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he is taking to ensure that Nigeria returns to full membership of the Commonwealth. [76981]

§ Mr. Tony Lloyd
The United Kingdom supports Nigeria's early return to the Commonwealth. The decision lies with Commonwealth Heads of Government. This matter will be discussed by the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group, at their next meeting on 29–30 April.