Buhari also commended the people of Kenya for the peaceful and transparent outcome of the elections.

President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated William Ruto after he emerged victorious in the just-concluded Presidential elections in Kenya.

TORI earlier reported that Ruto was declared the winner of the country’s close-fought presidential election on Monday.

According to the Chairman of the country’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, Wafula Chebukati, Ruto garnered almost 7.18 million votes (50.49 percent) against 6.94 million (48.85 percent) for his rival Raila Odinga in the August 9 vote.

Reacting, Buhari, in a statement by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President Media and Publicity, also commended the people of Kenya for the peaceful and transparent outcome of the elections, which once again demonstrates that the democratic process, values and principles remain the best way for the people to select their leaders and hold them accountable.

Buhari said Nigeria values Kenya as a strategic partner in the fight against terrorism and violence extremism, buoyed by a long history of friendship, economic and trade ties, and effective collaboration through international organisations such as the African Union, the United Nations and the Commonwealth.

While wishing Deputy President Ruto a successful inauguration and tenure in office, the President looks forward to more fruitful and robust engagements between the two countries on shared priorities such as enhancing peace and security on the continent, democracy, and greater economic prosperity and social development.

The Nigerian leader also salutes President Uhuru Kenyatta for his statesmanship and exemplary leadership to the people of Kenya in the past nine years and the profound legacies of his administration on infrastructure, education, healthcare reforms and tourism, as well as strong influence and support on regional security.