Dan Atori, Minna
THE British Government has thrown its weight behind Nigeria’s bid for a permanent seat at the United Nations (UN).
Britain is backing Nigeria ahead of South Africa, Ghana and other countries that have been in the running for the exalted position.
British High Commissioner in Nigeria, Mr Andrei Pock, who dropped the hint in Minna on Wednesday when he paid a courtesy visit on the Niger State Governor, Dr Muazu Babangida Aliyu, said that the decision of the British Government to support the country for the permanent UN seat was because the country has been a stabilising force in the West African sub region.
Said Pock: “The British government is throwing its weight behind Nigeria because the country has been contributing to peace keeping operations, not only in Africa but in the world.
“Nigeria is important to England. Britain sees Nigeria as a regional and international force and Britain will work with Nigeria on major foreign policy issues”.
The envoy, however, challenged governments in Nigeria to take security issues, especially in the Northern part of the country, serious, assuring that “we will partner with the government to restore peace and stability in the country”.
