Nigerian Vice President lauds Ghana's smooth transition

Accra, Aug. 2, GNA - Vice President Mohammed Namadi Sambo of Nigeria has lauded Ghana's smooth transition of government, following the demise of President John Evans Atta Mills on Tuesday July 24 at the 37th Military Hospital in Accra.

The Vice President said the development had enhanced the democratic strength of Ghana in particular and the West African sub-region as a whole.

Vice President Sambo made the commendation at the Kotoka International Airport, Accra, on arrival to the country to convey condolences of the Government and people of Nigeria to Ghana.

He said the loss of President Mills was untimely and serious, and noted that late President Mills was “a statesman, a man we are proud of in Nigeria, ECOWAS and Africa for his contribution to our development”.

“I am here with a delegation from Nigeria on behalf of President Goodluck Jonathan to console and commiserate with President John Dramani Mahama, the Government and the people of Ghana. We pray that the Almighty God would grant his soul perfect rest, and give the family and Ghanaians the fortitude to bear this great loss.”

Vice President Sambo acknowledged the close and good relations between Ghana and Nigeria over the years.

He said Ghanaians and Nigerians were one people, and pledged Nigeria's continued support for and cooperation with Ghana during the funeral of the late President Mills and beyond.

Vice President Sambo said: “I wish all Ghanaians will continue to live in peace in the interest of Ghana, ECOWAS and Africa.”

Alhaji Muhammad Mumuni, Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, welcoming Vice President Sombo, thanked him for the visit, which would contribute to lifting the spirits of Ghanaians in these hard times.

He acknowledged the bond between Ghana and Nigeria, and said that anything that happened to Ghana affected Nigeria and vice versa, and commended Nigeria for its “compassion, support and solidarity”.

“We are comforted that you have come with the condolences of the Nigerian people”.

Vice President Sombo and his delegation would pay a courtesy call on President John Dramani Mahama at the Osu Castle, Accra, sign the book of condolence at the Banquet Hall, State House, Accra, and convey their condolences to Dr Mrs Ernestina Naadu Mills, widow of the late President Mills.

GNA