WASHINGTON
Vice President Joe Biden on Wednesday commended Nigeria’s president-elect for his leadership in helping to ensure peace during his country’s recent elections.
In a telephone call with Muhammedu Buhari, Biden urged the continued smooth and peaceful transition with outgoing President Goodluck Jonathan, according to a White House statement.
The call came amid reports that Jonathan will handover power to Buhari earlier than expected.
A handover ceremony is expected to take place at a dinner on May 29, but Minister of Information Patricia Akwashiki said Wednesday that Jonathan would handover power May 28.
Biden also expressed the U.S.’s support for Nigeria’s efforts to counter the Boko Haram terror group and recover hostages, including 200 school girls kidnapped last year.
Buhari has vowed to utilize the utmost efforts to find the schoolgirls.
After losing three presidential races, Buhari, a former military ruler, finally clinched Nigeria's top post.
Buhari's All Progressive Congress also made big gains in the country's recent governorship polls by winning 10 out of 15 states.
