Nigeria has warned diplomats against interfering in elections.

President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria has issued a warning to diplomats about interfering in Nigeria's upcoming elections.

The warning was delivered during an Iftar dinner with diplomats at the president's house in Abuja on Thursday.

The presidential election is set to take place in February 2023.

"As Nigeria continues on this path, I urge our global friends, represented by you, the diplomatic corps, to play a positive role that reinforces the doctrine of respect for our internal affairs and respect for facts, free of preconceived notions and bias," Mr. Buhari is quoted in a statement as saying.

He also promised to take action against electoral fraud.

"Those planning to rig the upcoming elections should think again," he warned, adding that he intends to "resolutely preserve and defend the holy will of the Nigerian people, expressed through the ballot box."

Mr. Buhari's second term will expire in May 2023, and he will not be able to run for re-election.