Remarks by Ambassador Rick Barton, U.S. Permanent Representative to the Economic and Social Council, during the United Nations General Assembly Tribute to the Late President of Nigeria Mr. Umaru Musa Yar'Adua

Ambassador Rick Barton
U.S. Representative on the Economic and Social Council 
U.S. Mission to the United Nations 

New York, NY

May 13, 2010

AS DELIVERED

Thank you, Mr. President.

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, let me offer our deep condolences on the passing of President Umaru Yar’Adua. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Yar’Adua family and the people of Nigeria as they mourn his loss.

Today, we remember and honor President Yar’Adua’s profound personal decency and integrity, his deep commitment to public service, and his passionate belief in the vast potential and bright future of Nigeria’s 150 million people.

President Yar’Adua was working toward building strong democratic institutions based on constitutional processes. We know that he would want Nigeria to continue along this civilian, democratic path.  We urge all Nigerians to place their faith and support firmly behind orderly, democratic, and constitutional mechanisms. 
The United States applauds the timely inauguration of President Jonathan, the lawful successor to President Yar’Adua, and we applaud efforts to unify the country at this delicate moment. We encourage the Nigerian government to continue to move toward national democratic elections in 2011—and offer our support and assistance in these efforts.

On behalf of the United States, let me reaffirm to the Nigerian people and government our commitment to continued friendship and partnership with you. Together, we will continue to work to tackle the common challenges that we face.

Thank you, Mr. President.

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