We’ll respect citizens’ rights in fight against corruption – Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has assured the international community that his administration places high premium on strict observance of fundamental rights of its citizens, just as he solicited their support in the fight against terror.

Meanwhile, the president will today lead a Nigerian delegation to Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt to participate in the Business for Africa, Egypt and the World Forum.
In an extensive address he delivered at the yearly reception for members of the diplomatic community at the foyer of the Presidential Villa, Abuja yesterday, reiterated that his fight against corruption would be prosecuted within the ambit of the law.
The president who acknowledged that the war against terror could not be won by military means alone, stressed need for “a soft approach that speaks directly to the human mind. Poverty and hunger do not only incapacitate, but they can lead to desperation. We are also aware that poverty and marginalization, amongst other factors, can easily create room for indoctrination and co-option into violent extremism.

“Accordingly, we are paying attention to those economic programmes that will lead to empowerment of the people and thus provide an alternative lifestyle of fruitful engagement rather than resort to extremist and terrorist activities. Job creation and provision of quality education are key areas that are already receiving our attention.

“We are resolved to build a stable and prosperous Nigeria, a country that is inclusive of all her diverse peoples and a country that is at ease with itself. Building such a country will not be possible where corruption is pervasive. Mindful of this, it has become necessary to wage a relentless war against the cancer of corruption.”
He thanked friends and partners of Nigeria for the invaluable support they have and continue to render in our fight against Boko Haram, saying, “It is for this reason, that the Foreign Policy vision which we are currently pursuing is anchored on meaningful engagement with our neighbors, the
African continent and the world at large.”

The forum, which opens in the Egyptian resort town on Saturday, February 18, 2016, is being organized by the Egyptian government under the auspices of the African Union Commission.
The forum’s objective is to accelerate private sector engagement and investment within Africa and promote the development of African ties and partnerships.
A statement by his spokesman, Femi Adesina, said Buhari, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt and the Presidents of Togo, Sudan, Kenya, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea and the Prime Minister of Ethiopia are among confirmed speakers at the forum.