UNITED Nations secretary-general Ban Ki-Moon has challenged Nigeria to set an example for the rest of Africa by conducting free and fair elections that will serve as a beacon for the rest of the continent.  

Pointing out that today's elections will be closely-watched by world governments, Mr Ki-Moon called on Nigerians to vote in large numbers. He voiced hope that the presidential and parliamentary elections will be “transparent, inclusive and peaceful. 

Mr Ki-Moon said: “The international community has high expectations that Nigeria will provide leadership in setting a high standard for this election. I also call on the candidates and their supporters to resolve disputes that may arise from the electoral process through peaceful means.” 

In one of the closest races in Nigeria's history President Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party is up against former military ruler General Muhammadu Buhari, of the All Progressives Congress. Given the importance of Nigeria to the African continent, the elections will be closely watched at the United Nations and in world capitals, which are increasingly alarmed by the rise of Boko Haram. 

Nigeria has a history of election violence and both candidates have appealed for calm to prevent a repeat of 2011, when 1,000 people were killed in clashes after the results were announced. With the terrorist group Boko Haram also threatening to disrupt the polls, the international community is also watching the situation in the northeast closely.