In a pivotal meeting held on Tuesday, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, underscored the urgent need for United States support in addressing Nigeria’s challenges in security and corruption. The appeal comes as Nigeria grapples with rising insecurity and strives to combat corruption, acknowledging the potential global repercussions of a faltering Nigeria.
In an official statement Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker Musa Abdullahi Krishi said the Speaker, while hosting a delegation from the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria led by Chargé d’Affaires Mr. David Greene, emphasized the longstanding economic partnership between the United States and Nigeria. Recognizing Nigeria as one of the few African nations that have embraced American-style democracy, Speaker Abbas deemed the Nigeria-America relationship strategic.
Highlighting the commitment of the 10th National Assembly to deepen democracy, Speaker Abbas referred to the establishment of parliamentary friendship groups, with the United States identified as a key collaborator. The objective is to facilitate the exchange of ideas and foster mutual learning, particularly from a parliamentary perspective, to reinforce the core values of both nations.
Speaker Abbas expressed gratitude for the enduring support provided by the United States through development partners and agencies. While acknowledging past assistance, he urged the U.S. to intensify efforts in aiding Nigeria’s struggles against corruption, banditry, Boko Haram, and other security challenges.
In his remarks, Speaker Abbas emphasized the pivotal role Nigeria plays in Africa, stating, “If we get Nigeria to be on the right path, I assure you that Africa will have a better perspective, and there will be a better future for the continent.”
Chargé d’Affaires Mr. David Greene, in extending condolences to Speaker Abbas for the recent accidental bombing in Kaduna State, acknowledged the shared values of the two nations as federal republics committed to the democratic process. Greene emphasized the importance of deepening U.S.-Nigeria ties and the need for collaborative efforts to address common concerns.
The meeting concluded with the commitment to further collaboration between the two nations, with the aim of fostering a more secure and stable future for Nigeria and the broader African continent.
