UN chief praises Nigeria`s `democratic spirit`

United Nations: UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Wednesday congratulated Nigeria`s new president-elect Muhammadu Buhari for his election victory and described the vote as a "testament to the maturity of Nigeria`s democracy."

Buhari defeated incumbent Goodluck Jonathan and will oversee the first democratic change of power in Africa`s most populous nation.

"The successful outcome of these polls is a testament to the maturity of Nigeria`s democracy," Ban said in a statement.

He voiced hope that the "same democratic spirit" will prevail in the April 11 elections for governors and state assemblies.

The UN chief commended Jonathan for his leadership and statesmanship in upholding the democratic process.

He called on Nigerians to accept the outcome of the vote and resolve complaints through legal channels.

The UN chief spoke by phone with the two leaders on Tuesday after the result was announced.