Politics in Nigeria is fascinating – British high commissioner, Catriona Laing

Catriona Laing, Outgoing British High Commissioner, has described Nigeria’s politics as fascinating. She expressed that though there were setbacks and dissapointments with the just concluded 2023 Presidential and National asesembly elections.

Fielding questions from journalists after a courtesy visit to the Senate President, Dr Ahmad Lawan at the National Assembly complex on Tuesday in Abuja, Laing said: “The politics in Nigeria is so fascinating. I was here [during] the last election and I finished with this election. I’m impressed with Nigeria’s democratic journey.

“Yes, a bit of setbacks (are noticed), but overall, I see this as positive and Nigeria should be proud but with a remarkable difference [compared to] 2019. Nigeria is the biggest democracy in Africa. The world watches your progress to democracy.

“Though there were some disappointments in the last elections, overall, every Nigerian should be proud, because, since 1999, Nigeria has been on the right track as far as participatory democracy is concerned.

“The election here is very different and fascinating as you are moving to a three-party system or maybe even four. I think Nigerians as well should realise that their votes count.”