Abuja, Nigeria – Kurt Campbell, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, arrived in Nigeria for his first official trip to Africa in this role. The visit marked a significant return for Campbell, who began his career on the continent.
“This trip brings me full circle,” Campbell remarked. “I’m excited to leverage my experience and advance U.S.-Nigeria relations through the Binational Commission.”
The Binational Commission meeting, co-chaired by Campbell and Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, focused on strengthening the multifaceted partnership between the two countries. Discussions centered on shared economic, security, and development goals.
A key outcome of the commission was a renewed commitment to expand trade and investment ties between the U.S. and Nigeria. Both nations pledged to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth, fostering job creation in both countries. A particular emphasis was placed on joint efforts to empower young Nigerians and women in the tech sector, considered crucial for achieving long-term economic prosperity.
Together we are strengthening the U.S.-Nigeria partnership. I met @YusufTuggar at the U.S.-Nigeria Binational Commission in Abuja, where we engaged on shared economic, security, and development priorities. We will continue to leverage our partnership to build a better future for… pic.twitter.com/QkBjPKNypt
— Deputy Secretary Kurt Campbell (@DeputySecState) April 30, 2024The U.S. and Nigeria reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening democratic institutions, upholding the rule of law, and respecting human rights, including religious freedom, during the Democracy, Governance, and Accountability working group meeting.
Deputy Secretary Campbell also had the opportunity to meet with U.S. exchange program alumni in Nigeria. He expressed his admiration for their contributions to the country’s future, stating, “I’m humbled to meet these incredible individuals. Their experiences in the U.S. have demonstrably shaped their impressive civic engagement in building a brighter Nigeria.”
Humbled to meet these incredible U.S. exchange alumni. Heard about their experiences in the U.S. and how those exchanges helped shape their impressive civic contributions to a brighter future in Nigeria. 🇺🇸🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/9x6V4NXWb2
— Deputy Secretary Kurt Campbell (@DeputySecState) April 30, 2024
