Brussels, 15/03/2007 (Agence Europe) - At the request of the Nigerian government, the EU will be taking part in the monitoring of the general elections planned for 14-21 April in Nigeria. The monitoring mission, dispatched by the European Commission will be led by Margrietus van den Berg MEP (PES, Netherlands). The core of the team is just about to be sent out and will ensure electoral assessment coordination. 66 long term observers will make a significant contribution to the assessment of the campaign and preparations for the elections. Short term observers will be monitoring the vote, counting the ballot papers and recording the results. In a press release, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, Commissioner for External Relations, stressed, “credible elections are extremely important for Nigeria's long term stability”. (an)