Interview With Nigerian President

In this exclusive interview with Vision newspaper the Nigerian President, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari now on an official visit to Jamaica has praised Jamaican athletes for their excellence in the area of track and field.

His Excellency: We Nigerians are trying to learn that sport from you Jamaicans.

HO’C-D: Your athlete broke a world record and you all should be commended.  I have heard of your vast country with a rich heritage.

Thank you for those kind words

I would like to extend an invitation to you to visit Nigeria.

H’OC-D: Are you serious. Thank you His Excellency for your offer.  I would like that very much. I have heard lots about your rich heritage and oil exploits.  Jamaicans think highly of Nigerians.  We all have our challenges as a society, nowhere is a bed of roses.

Are you from Lagos?

His Excellency: No I am from Abuja which is the capital of Nigeria. Most people think Lagos is the Capital City.

Lagos is the commercial capital.

HO’C-D: Would like to wish you an enjoyable stay in Jamaica. Your Ambassador to Jamaica, Dr. Maureen P. Tamuno has been representing you and your great nation Nigeria excellently.

His Excellency:  I thank you Mr. Journalist,  Mr. O’Connor-Dennie.

Background

Nigeria has a population of 216, 317, 000 it borders Cameroon and is densely populated. It has access to a port of Benin. The main religion is mainly Muslim.  It is rich in oil deposits and is regarded as a stable and safe place.

Federal Parliament

Nigeria has a Federal Parliament and is considered quite stable. There has been political instability in the past, but things seem to have settled in that regard.  Goodwill Jonathan was their former president.  Buhari has succeeded him as president.

Independence Celebrations 

Each year the Jamaican government invites a dignitary as guests to our annual Independence Celebrations. The last one held before COVID the Kenyan President and his wife who happens to be a Jamaican were guests.  I had the honour of meeting him personally also.  He was warm.

Commentary

I was very impressed with the warmth of President Buhari.  Our meeting was as if a lost found brother from another mother.  Much to the concern of his personal security as he reached out to me in a most friendly and caring manner.  It was a touching and heart warming experience.  He was quite charismatic and welcoming.

We wish President Buhari all the best as he leads his country Nigeria.