The recent engagements between the United States and Nigeria underscore the importance of their partnership, as they represent two of the world's most populous presidential democracies. Deputy Secretary Kurt Campbell and Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf M. Tuggar have been instrumental in advancing mutual economic, governance, and security priorities. These efforts were particularly evident during the April 29-30 U.S.-Nigeria Binational Commission in Abuja, the 16th U.S.-Africa Business Summit from May 6-9 in Dallas, Texas, and Foreign Minister Tuggar’s May 14-17 visit to Washington.
The digital transformation sector illustrates the vast potential that can be realized through U.S.-Nigeria government, business, and people-to-people relationships. The United States is collaborating closely with Nigeria to develop a joint action plan to expedite Nigeria’s digital transformation. This initiative is part of President Biden’s Digital Transformation with Africa strategy, which seeks to stimulate greater investments in Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and human capital.
In aviation, the U.S.-Nigeria Open Skies Air Transport Agreement came into effect on May 13. This bilateral agreement fosters a modern civil aviation relationship with commitments to high standards of aviation safety and security.
Cultural exchanges also play a significant role in this partnership. Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs Lee Satterfield announced three new exchange programs for creative industries during her March visit to Nigeria. Additionally, the launch of Nigeria’s first Cultural Property Agreement Implementation Grant at the National Museum in Lagos signifies the U.S. government’s dedication to protecting and preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
The Office of Intellectual Property Enforcement continued its Creative Industries Ecosystem Roundtable Series in November 2023 in Lagos. Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs Ramin Toloui led discussions advocating for a robust legal framework for creative entrepreneurs to compete globally.
The U.S.-Nigeria partnership also benefits from diaspora engagement under President Bola Tinubu’s “4-D” – Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora – foreign policy. With over 500,000 Nigerian-born U.S. citizens and legal residents, and 17,000 Nigerian students studying in the United States, these ties are crucial for promoting economic growth and innovation.
The impending visit of the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement to Nigeria in July further underscores this commitment. Diaspora Nigerians in the United States contribute at least $20 billion annually in remittances to Nigeria, stimulating local economies and fostering entrepreneurial pursuits.
These initiatives reflect the United States' commitment to deepening its relationship with Nigeria in support of inclusive economic growth and shared prosperity. The U.S.-Nigeria partnership continues to thrive on shared interests, values, and strong people-to-people ties.
