Honore Cocou Hounkpatin
Savouring the peaceful and assessed fair election, recently concluded in their country, the Union of Beninoise Residents in Nigeria has called on the new President-Elect of Benin Republic to work with the Nigerian government to strengthen bilateral trade ties between both countries.
The union also called for the removal of all bottlenecks along the Seme border to ensure free movement of goods and people, to boost regional integration and businesses within the sub-region.
In a statement in Abuja, National President of the association, Honore Cocou Hounkpatin noted how job creation and employment were key to addressing crisis in the sector.
“We congratulate the Independent Electoral Commission of Benin (CENA), the Independent National Electoral Commission of Nigeria, and local and international institutions of various governments who have contributed to the success of the election.
“The election was well conducted, devoid of violence and fair. This election has shown the maturity of democracy in the Republic of Benin and Africa at large.
“We also congratulate Mr. Zinsou Lionel for his show of maturity by accepting the outcome of the election and as a show of sportsmanship, congratulating Patrice Talon even before he was declared winner. This indeed, is not just victor for the Republic of Benin, but a victory for democracy and Africa.
“I make bold to state that over 1.5 million to two million Beninoise reside in Nigeria. 7,000 of this number were registered and 4000 got their voter’ cards. About 2000 voted in Nigeria.”
“We are highly delighted with the political takeover and consider this victory enormous not just for the Republic of Benin alone, but for Africa as a whole, particularly Nigeria.
“It is our fervent believe that under President Talon’s administration, economic and social ties with Nigeria, which has not been exploited over the years, will receive attention,“ he stated.
Areas to be exploited, according to him, are security, trade, commerce and tourism, urging the incoming administration to promote full implementation of ECOWAS treaty on free movement of persons and goods and foster African integration.
Guardian