The Nigerian Government has congratulated Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on his election as the 23rd President of Bangladesh, describing the development as an important milestone in the country’s democratic history.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, conveyed Nigeria’s congratulatory message to Alamgir, the Bangladeshi Government and its people in a post on X on Friday.
Alamgir was elected by Bangladesh’s Parliament, the Jatiya Sangsad, on Thursday, securing 255 votes against 88 votes won by his challenger, retired Colonel Oli Ahmad.
His election marked Bangladesh’s first contested presidential election in 35 years.
Nigeria commended the people and institutions of Bangladesh for the peaceful conduct of the electoral process and expressed confidence that Alamgir would provide responsible and purposeful leadership.
According to the Federal Government, his administration would be expected to promote national unity, political stability, democratic governance and sustainable development.
Nigeria also reaffirmed the cordial relations between the two countries, noting that they share mutual interests and a commitment to international cooperation and multilateralism.
The government said Nigeria and Bangladesh, both members of the Global South, have common interests in areas including sustainable development, economic growth, food and energy security, climate action and stronger South-South cooperation.
It expressed its readiness to work with Alamgir’s administration to deepen bilateral relations, particularly in trade and investment, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, education, information and communications technology, healthcare, culture and people-to-people exchanges.
Nigeria further acknowledged Bangladesh’s role in regional and international affairs and pledged to strengthen cooperation with the country through the United Nations, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and other multilateral platforms.
As Alamgir prepares to assume Bangladesh’s highest constitutional office, the Federal Government wished him wisdom, good health and success in carrying out his responsibilities.
It also expressed confidence that his leadership would contribute to Bangladesh’s continued peace, stability, prosperity and development.
Alamgir’s election has reportedly drawn congratulations from several countries, including China, the United Kingdom, France and Switzerland, with the countries signalling their interest in strengthening relations with his administration.
