The two most populous African countries, Ethiopia and Nigeria, announced on Wednesday that they have recognized the National Transitional Council (NTC) of Libya as the legitimate authority in that country as it is controlling most part of Libya including Tripoli.

Hailemariam Desalegn, the foreign minister of Ethiopia, and his Nigerian counterpart Oubeng Ashiru told journalists in Ethiopia that the two countries have decided to jointly recognize the NTC as the interim legitimate authority in Libya.

In the joint press statement, they also called on all peace loving countries in general and that of Africa and the AU in particular to contribute to peace and stability in Libya by recognizing the authority and legitimacy of the NTC.

"Ethiopia and Nigeria are on the side of the NTC at this important juncture of history of Libya. We stand ready to extend to them the support necessary to facilitate the achievement of the difficult tasks of establishing an inclusive transitional government, reconstruction, national reconciliation, and peace building in order to meet the yearnings and legitimate aspirations of the Libyan people for human rights, democracy, the rule of law and good governance," said the joint statement.

Towards the realization of the lofty objectives, they also urged the AU and its members to be consistent by extending to the NTC the type of support and recognition to Tunisia and Egypt.

Hailemariam said the two countries would avail themselves to provide the necessary support including political support requested by the NTC towards the smooth transition in Libya.

For his part, Ashiru also assured that two countries are ready to assist the NTC for orderly and peaceful taking over of power. The two officials said the two countries would follow the situations and further process closely. They said the two countries would also work closely with the international community and other peace loving parties to help Libya achieve stability and smooth transition.