Hello, today I (Obama) want to speak directly to you the people of Nigeria. Nigeria is a great Nation and you can be proud of the progress you have made. Together you have won your Independence, emerged from military rule and strengthen the democratic institutions. You have strived to overcome divisions and turned Nigeria into a source of strength.
You worked hard to improve the lives of your families and built the largest economy in Africa. Now, you have the historic opportunity to help write the next chapter of Nigeria’s progress by voting in the upcoming elections. For elections to be credible, they must be free, fair and peaceful.
All Nigerians must be able to cast their votes without intimidation or fear. So, I call on all leaders and candidates to make it clear to the supporters that violent has no place in Democratic Elections and that they will not incite, support or engage in any kind of violence before, during or after the votes are carried out. I call on all Nigerians to peacefully express your views and to reject the voices of those who call for violence. Moreover, when elections are free and fair it is the responsibility of all citizens to help keep the peace no matter who wins.
Successful elections and democratic progress will help Nigeria meet the urgent challenges you face today. Boko Haram a brutal terrorist groups that kills innocent men and women and children must be stopped. Hundreds of kidnapped children deserve to return to their families. Nigerians who has been forced to flee deserve to return to their homes. Boko Haram want to destroy Nigeria and all that you have built, by casting your ballot you can help secure your nation’s progress.
I am told there is a saying in your country. To keep Nigeria 1 is the task that must be done. Today I urge all Nigerians from all religions or ethnic groups and all regions to come together and keep Nigeria 1.
Then, this task of advancing the security, prosperity and human rights of all Nigerians you will continue to have a friend and partner in the United States of America.