Thread by @SP8thNGRSenate

#Thread: Yesterday, the @SPNigeria @BukolaSaraki met with the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for West Africa and Sahel, Mr Muhammad Ibn Chambas.

The meeting centered around:
-The @NGRSenate’s work in the N/East and IDPs;
-The UN’s interest in the devolution of powers agitations in parts of the nation;
-Nigeria’s preparedness for the 2019 elections;
-The #GEOBill;
-Migration; and
-Repatriation of Nigeria’s money abroad.

“The UN stands with Nigeria as the process of preparation for elections commences.” -UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative’s comment to @SPNigeria @BukolaSaraki

“We commend you as the leader of @NASSNigeria for the work on the North East and for the bipartisan approach to addressing strategic national issues.” -UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative’s comment to @SPNigeria @BukolaSaraki

“There is a need to bring government closer to the people by empowering the third tier of government… We commend your efforts on legislating to enhance Nigeria’s peace architecture.” -UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative’s comment to @SPNigeria @BukolaSaraki

The UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative also expressed his admiration and appreciation of the collaborative atmosphere of governance in Nigeria.

The UN delegation also expressed its appreciation to @NASSNigeria, which has always opened it doors to the various agencies, programs and funds of the international body.

The @SPNigeria @BukolaSaraki conveyed the appreciation of @NGRSenate and @NASSNigeria to the @UN and its Secretary General, @antonioguterres, for the support of programs in Nigeria.

“The UN has always been there for the Nigeria. We appreciate that.”

“You've come up with a lot of issues on this visit. As you are aware, the 8th Senate has been committed to the N/East. We also hope with the #NEDC Bill signing, it will help to rapidly re-develop the region.” -@SPNigeria @BukolaSaraki

“At the international level, we need to have a global push on Nigeria’s N/East and #IDP issue. The @UN can help with this. We need to put this frontline and center like the world has done with Syria and other countries.” -@SPNigeria @BukolaSaraki

“On the repatriation of funds: We feel very strongly about this. We hope to get more support from the @UN. It is condescending that people say that Nigeria cannot manage our own funds.” -@SPNigeria @BukolaSaraki

On the collaboration with the Executive:

“When the two arms of government are working together, we can do more and be more. We are all encouraged by the renewed push for collaboration. We are partners in progress.” -@SPNigeria @BukolaSaraki to UN Sec. General's Representative