US mission will partner Tinubu’s administration to strengthen institutions, says envoy

The U.S. mission in Nigeria says it will partner President Bola Tinubu’s administration to strengthen Nigeria’s institutions.

Speaking on Thursday at an event commemorating the 247th year of U.S. independence in Abuja, David Greene, Charge d’Affaires ad interim at the U.S. Mission, said the consulate is interested in deepening collaboration between both countries.

The envoy said U.S. Mission will support the Nigerian government across economic, security and health sectors.

He added that hard work is required to preserve democratic principles and values.

“Even as the U.S. works to ensure our own nation remains true to the ideals of its founding, we seek to partner with friends and allies in strengthening their democratic institutions as well,” he said.

“In recognition of this important task, President Joe Biden hosted, on the margins of December’s African Leaders Summit, a session focused on elections.

“As President Biden has said, elected leaders owe it to their people to show that democracy can deliver for their needs, and the U.S. is Nigeria’s partner in making it possible to deliver.

“We look forward to partnering with President Tinubu’s Administration to ensure that the Nigerian people’s vision for their country is realised by strengthening Nigerian institutions.

“And helping, in the words of the Nigerian National anthem, build a nation where peace and justice shall reign.

“As Biden said on the occasion of President Tinubu’s inauguration, as Africa’s largest democracy and economy, Nigeria’s success is the world’s success.

“I and my whole team here and in Lagos look forward to working with all of you towards that success.”

Greene commended the Nigerian government’s “efforts, working closely with U.S. Mission personnel” during the attack on the staff of the U.S. consulate in Anambra in May.

Last month, gunmen attacked a convoy conveying staff of the U.S. consulate, police officers and some civilians in Anambra.

Two police operatives were killed alongside two staff of the consulate.

However, some members of the convoy that were unaccounted for after the attack were rescued by the police a few days later.

Greene said the U.S. Consulate is “eternally grateful” for the actions of the security agents following the incident.