The United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Frank Garcia, has called on the Nigerian government to strengthen measures aimed at protecting Christian communities from violent attacks and ensuring that internally displaced persons (IDPs) can safely return to their communities.
Garcia made the appeal during an official visit to Abuja, where he met with top Nigerian government officials to discuss ways of strengthening the strategic partnership between both countries in areas such as security, justice reform, digital innovation, investment and regional stability.
During the visit, he held separate meetings with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi; the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani; and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
While discussing security matters, Garcia welcomed Nigeria’s increased participation in the U.S.-Nigeria Joint Working Group (JWG), established to address issues related to Nigeria’s Country of Particular Concern designation. However, he emphasized the need for stronger efforts to protect Christian communities from attacks and urged the government to dedicate more resources toward the safe resettlement of displaced citizens.
He also expressed optimism ahead of the next Joint Working Group meeting scheduled for August in Washington, D.C., where both countries will assess progress on their shared commitments.
Garcia’s discussions with the Attorney General focused on improving cooperation in prosecuting terrorism-related offences, strengthening criminal justice and promoting religious freedom.
In his meeting with the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the talks centred on attracting greater U.S. investment into Nigeria’s digital economy and encouraging increased private sector collaboration.
The U.S. official also engaged with executives from leading American energy and technology companies to discuss ways of improving Nigeria’s investment climate and expanding business opportunities between both nations.
The visit highlighted the continued commitment of Nigeria and the United States to deepen cooperation in security, governance, economic development and regional stability.
