President Bola Tinubu asserted his dedication to boosting democracy and accelerating sustainable development in Nigeria during a meeting with a United States Congressional delegation.
As confirmed by his Special Adviser on Media & Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu welcomed the United States Congressional delegation led by Senator Cory Booker at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday.
At the meeting, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of translating democracy into tangible benefits such as quality healthcare, education, food security, and economic prosperity for all Nigerians.
He stated Nigeria’s role in fostering democracy within Africa and beyond, citing the nation’s status as the continent’s largest economy and democracy.
Addressing the delegates, the President articulated his commitment to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law.
“Nigeria, as the giant of Africa, had suffered leadership elephantiasis years back. I am determined to change that. Adhering to the principles of democracy and the rule of law is very important to us. I wonder how democracy will survive if we do not fight for it,” he said.
He also reflected on his sacrifices in the fight for democracy stating that “The power of our citizens is and must remain supreme.”
Calling for a more pragmatic partnership between the United States and Africa, President Tinubu urged for increased support in critical development programs.
Drawing parallels to the Marshall Plan, he advocated for substantial investments to uplift Africa economically and address its pressing challenges.
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However, the president stated that the economic neglect in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, was attributed to continued exploitation by former colonial powers.
He asked for America’s help in utilizing Africa’s mineral resources for economic growth and suggested incentives for companies like John Deere to mechanize food production.
Furthermore, Tinubu stressed the importance of improving education and emphasized Africa’s role as a democratic partner.
He added: “We are capable and willing to lift our people out of poverty.”
Speaking, Senator Cory Booker commended President Tinubu as a visionary leader who made tough decisions for the betterment of Nigeria.
The U.S. Senator expressed eagerness to deepen the partnership between Nigeria and the United States, emphasizing shared values of democracy, entrepreneurship, and peace.
He compared his time as Mayor of Newark to President Tinubu’s transforming Nigeria and concluded with “…You have a partner in the United States,”
Similarly, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, addressed concerns raised by the U.S. House of Representatives regarding religious intolerance in Nigeria.
He assured the delegation of Nigeria’s commitment to upholding constitutional rights for all citizens.
The Minister added: “There is no government that will support anything inimical to the provisions of the constitution.”
In response, U.S. Congresswoman Sara Jacobs affirmed the consensus within the U.S. House of Representatives and the White House against designating Nigeria as a country of concern.
