Frank Garcia, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, has formally requested that Nigerian authorities enhance security measures for Christian groups and prioritize the resettlement of internally displaced citizens. This appeal was issued throughout his recent diplomatic trip to Abuja.
During his visit, Garcia engaged in key discussions with several Nigerian leaders, including Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, Attorney General Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. These conversations aimed to fortify the partnership between the two nations regarding security, judicial reform, and economic growth.
While Garcia noted Nigeria’s active participation in the U.S.-Nigeria Joint Working Group, he insisted that additional action is required to prevent violence against Christian populations. He also emphasized the necessity for more robust resources to aid the return of displaced people to their homes.
Furthermore, the U.S. official explored avenues for expanding digital economy investments with Minister Bosun Tijani and conferred with prominent American firms to improve Nigeria’s commercial climate. Both nations look forward to assessing their progress at an upcoming Joint Working Group summit in Washington, D.C., this August.
