‘Our countries share values’ — Kenyan president congratulates Tinubu

Kenyan President Williams Ruto has congratulated Bola Tinubu, president-elect, on his electoral victory.

Ruto congratulatory message was contained in a letter brought to Nigeria by Felix Koskei, head of Kenyan civil service and special envoy, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, an aide to Tinubu, said in a statement on Sunday.

Tinubu is expected to be inaugurated as Nigeria’s president on May 29.

Ruto said he looked forward to working with Tinubu to champion the cause of the African continent.

“On behalf of the government and people of the republic of Kenya, and on my own behalf, I convey greetings and congratulations to you on your victory, and to the people of the federal republic of Nigeria for their fortitude and maturity in ensuring the successful conduct of the 2023 general elections,” Ruto’s letter reads.

“I wish to applaud the close friendship which exists between our two countries.

“Kenya and Nigeria share values and aspirations in various sectors including political, socio-economic, cultural, diplomatic exchange and indeed hold commonality of views on many continental and international issues.

“I look forward to working with you to champion the cause of our continent, and to strengthen further the historical bonds and friendship that happily exist between our two countries and the people.”

Upon receipt of the letter, Tinubu said he intended on maintaining the relationship between Nigeria and Kenya.

“I intend to maintain that long, cordial relationship between our two countries and continue to pursue the aspiration of our forefathers towards building a stronger and more economically stable Africa,” the president-elect was quoted as saying.

“If we exchange ideas and inter-relate, it will help our continent. Economic opportunities would be explored for Africa’s growth and security.”