Following Nigeria’s election to the non-permanent seat of the United Nations Security Council yesterday, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has welcomed the development, expressing sincere appreciation to those that voted for the country.

This was revealed in a statement released by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr Reuben Abati.

 “The President believes that today’s endorsement of Nigeria’s candidature for the Security Council seat by the vast majority of member-countries is a growing expression of support and encouragement for Nigeria’s active participation in the promotion of peace, security and political stability in Africa and other parts of the world.

“The President is particularly delighted by this historic victory and assures the global community that Nigeria, under his leadership, will continue to make very significant contributions towards the achievement and sustenance of global peace and security.’’ The statement said.

This is the fourth time since it became independence in 1960 that Nigeria is being elected to the UN Security Council.

It is also the second time (2010-2011 and 2014-2015) that Nigeria will be elected to the council under the Jonathan Presidency.

Nigeria got 186 out of a possible 193 votes to clinch the seat on Thursday at the UN headquarters in New York.