All 15 member states backed a proposal to ease diplomatic and sporting sanctions

The toughest measures - including an arms embargo and suspension of military co-operation - remain in place. But the EU has said these could also go if open elections are allowed to take place next year.

Once the sanctions are lifted on Sunday, Nigerian Government members, military officials and their families will be allowed to travel to the EU again. Military personnel can rejoin diplomatic missions and high-level visits will be restored.

The new policy also holds out the prospect of a resumption of EU development aid. The EU currently gives only humanitarian aid to Nigeria.

But the EU warned that sanctions could be tightened again next year if the situation in Nigeria deteriorated.

Encouraging democracy

The easing of sanctions is a result of what the EU regards as highly encouraging improvements in Nigeria in recent months.

The EU is happy with General Abubakar's moves towards democracy

It has applauded efforts made by General Abdulsalami Abubakar since he took over as military ruler after the death of Sani Abacha in June.

General Abubakar has freed many political prisoners and promised to restore democracy by the end of May 1999.

The EU imposed sanctions in 1995 after General Abacha ordered the execution of author Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other minority activists.

Commonwealth measures

Earlier this month, ministers of leading Commonwealth countries recommended the lifting of sanctions against Nigeria.

The eight-nation Commonwealth Action Group (CMAG) said it would also consider readmitting Nigeria as a member after next year's elections.

In the meantime, it has called on Nigeria to resume participation in Commonwealth activities promoting human rights and democracy.