The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Defence, Benson Babajimi (APC-Lagos), has called for a partnership between the United States and Nigeria to tackle the increasing insecurity in Nigeria.
In a statement following a roundtable discussion with senior U.S. officials in Abuja on Saturday, Mr Babajimi emphasised that both nations are stronger together.
“Nigeria needs the United States just as the United States needs Nigeria,” he remarked.
The lawmaker highlighted that over the past year, there have been consistent engagements between relevant committees of the House and senior U.S. officials, which have reaffirmed a lasting partnership and a shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in Nigeria.
According to Mr Babajimi, the officials assured them of the U.S. government’s commitment to supporting Nigeria through both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches.
“At the conclusion of our most recent discussions, both parties agreed on the necessity to deepen trust, expand U.S. support for Nigeria’s fight against insurgency, strengthen human rights protections, and enhance legislative diplomacy between our two nations.
“Our vision for Nigeria-U.S. relations is one in which the global narrative reflects not only our challenges but also the strength, creativity, and resilience of Nigerian youth, alongside the bold reforms currently underway to restore Nigeria to its rightful place as the giant of Africa.
“What our engagements with U.S. officials have consistently affirmed is that cooperation, collaboration, and constructive partnership are the most effective means of addressing our security concerns, deepening our democracy, and protecting human rights.
“We remain open to honest dialogue, fair criticism, and mutual accountability, but always within a framework of respect, partnership, and shared strategic interests.
“These are the surest pathways to a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous Nigeria, in a manner that advances the long-term interests, values, and security of both Nigeria and the United States,” the lawmaker stated.
Mr Babajimi noted that condemnation or confrontation would not benefit Nigeria at this critical juncture in its democratic journey.
(NAN)
