President Jonathan welcomed the ANC’s victory, with over 60 per cent of the votes cast in the election to the South African Parliament and provincial legislatures, as an affirmation of the enduring popularity of President Zuma and the party of Nelson Mandela, Oliver Thambo and other great heroes of the anti-apartheid movement, as well as a reaffirmation of the confidence of the majority of the people of South Africa in the ability of the ANC government to progressively achieve more inclusive national economic development and prosperity.
A statement by presidential spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, added: “President Jonathan and Nigeria felicitate with the people of South Africa on the peaceful and successful conduct of the elections which were the first since the passing away of Dr. Nelson Mandela. He believes that the elections and the ANC’s fifth consecutive victory at national polls are a well-deserved tribute to the Madiba, whose contributions to the emergence of a non-racist and truly democratic South Africa, remain legendary.
“President Jonathan looks forward to continuing to work with President Zuma and his ANC government to further strengthen the cordial and mutually-beneficial relations between Nigeria and South Africa, especially in the area of bilateral trade and investments.
“The President also trusts that under the continued leadership of the ANC, Nigeria and South Africa will keep on working together with others for the attainment of greater peace, political stability, economic development and progress in all parts of the African continent.
“He wishes President Zuma and the ANC enduring accomplishments in the service of the people of South Africa.”