The United States reiterates its support for peaceful, free, transparent, and credible electoral processes in Nigeria and renews its calls on all candidates, their supporters, and Nigerian citizens to reject election-related violence. As the Secretary said when he met with the leading candidates in Lagos on January 25, it is imperative that all Nigerians not only reject violence, but also promote peace.

The United States also looks to Nigeria to hold these elections on time. We call on the national police, the Nigerian military, and all security force personnel to provide security in an impartial manner so that citizens across the country are able to exercise their civic duty safely and without undue delay.

The U.S. government has provided direct support to Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as it seeks to conduct credible and peaceful elections, and we will continue to support the efforts of INEC Chairman Attahiru Jega to bring about this result.