Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has emphasized the need for stronger U.S.–Nigeria relations, urging Washington to focus on forging deeper investment partnerships with Nigeria and other key African nations.
Tuggar made this appeal during a high-level roundtable organized by the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU) on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The event, which also featured Vice President Kashim Shettima, brought together top executives from leading U.S. companies to explore investment opportunities in Nigeria’s priority sectors, including energy, agriculture, technology, and finance.
In his remarks, the Minister urged the United States to “revert to working with anchor states in Africa”, citing Nigeria’s vast population, abundant natural resources, and continental influence as factors that make it a natural partner for U.S. businesses.
“Collaborating with Nigeria will not only help drive down operational costs but also provide access to a large and skilled talent pool while integrating millions of informal businesses into the formal economy,” Tuggar said.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to economic diplomacy under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that the administration is focused on creating a conducive business environment and ensuring that international partnerships translate into tangible benefits for Nigerians.
Tuggar further noted that Nigeria’s demographic strength, ongoing reforms, and regional leadership uniquely position the country as Africa’s leading hub for global investment.
