President Goodluck Jonathan has been conferred with the Grand Crois of the Nationale by the interim president Diangunda Traore in the presidential villa, and it is said to be the highest honour of the Republic of Mali.
Before decorating the President Jonathan, the visiting interim president said the honour was for Jonathan’s pivotal role in the restoration of peace and security in that country.
Professor Traore described the crisis as one that shook the entire nation for many months and thanked the Nigerian president for not hesitating in sending human, financial and material resources to rescue his nation.
In his response, President Jonathan said that what he did was a confirmation of the commitment of Nigeria to conflict resolution in the African continent.
He said that inspite of the loss, Nigeria remains committed in supporting the course of peace in Mali.
The President also congratulated Mali’s President-elect, Mr. Ibrahim Boubacar Keita on his victory in last Sunday’s run-off Presidential election in the country.
He commended the people of Mali for successfully conducting the elections and taking a major step towards the full restoration of democratic governance to their country and that he is looking forward to the conclusion of the process with Mr. Keita’s inauguration as President in keeping with the wish of the Malian people as expressed at the polls on Sunday.
The President said he believes that for Mr. Keita to have served as Prime Minister capably for many years, Mr. Keita will assume the Malian Presidency with the requisite experience, knowledge and wisdom needed to guide the country towards a speedy return to peace, normalcy, political stability and further development.
President Jonathan assured Mr. Keita of the support, assistance and cooperation of Nigeria, ECOWAS and the African Union as he prepares to assume the burden of leading Mali away from political strife and instability, to national peace and progress.
He wished the Malian President-elect a very successful tenure in office.
