By Sofiat Adenekan-Adepeju
The Federal Government has congratulated Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on his election as the 23rd President of Bangladesh, describing it as a significant milestone in the country’s democratic journey.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, conveyed Nigeria’s congratulations to Alamgir, the government and people of Bangladesh in a post on X on Friday.
Alamgir was elected by Bangladesh’s Parliament, the Jatiya Sangsad, on Thursday.
He secured 255 votes against 88 votes won by his opponent, retired Colonel Oli Ahmad, in what was Bangladesh’s first contested presidential election in 35 years.
In its message, Nigeria commended the people and institutions of Bangladesh for the peaceful conduct of the electoral process.
The Federal Government expressed confidence that Alamgir would provide “responsible and purposeful leadership” focused on promoting national unity, stability, democratic governance and sustainable development.
Nigeria also described its relationship with Bangladesh as cordial, based on mutual respect, shared interests and a common commitment to international cooperation and multilateralism.
The Federal Government said both countries, as members of the Global South, share common interests in sustainable development, economic growth, food and energy security, climate action and stronger South-South cooperation.
Nigeria expressed optimism that Alamgir’s emergence would provide an opportunity for both countries to deepen bilateral relations and strengthen cooperation on issues of mutual interest.
The government reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to working with Bangladesh to advance shared development goals and promote stronger cooperation within the international community.
