President Bola Tinubu has praised the United States’ support for Nigeria’s democracy and called for closer cooperation between the two countries.
Tinubu, who received a Letter of Credence from the newly appointed US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., at the Presidential Villa on Thursday, emphasised the necessity of preserving democracy, its values, and institutions.
He stated that protests are an important aspect of democracy, but that no government will tolerate rallies that result in the loss of lives and property.
“We have a rich relationship with America. We believe in democracy and freedom. Some of your predecessors fought hard during our democratic transition, and we remember people like Ambassador Howard Jeter,” Tinubu said in a statement released by presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale.
“We look forward to Nigeria and the United States continuously working to expand cooperation on shared goals and democratic values.”
The President also highlighted US efforts during the military era, citing the country’s commitment to Nigeria’s 25-year period of uninterrupted democracy.
“During the military era, we spoke out against dictatorships, and I was part of a group that held peaceful marches without destroying property.
“We have worked hard to ensure 25 years of unbroken democracy and I will continue to maintain this democracy.”
The ambassador, for his part, reiterated the US commitment to extending cybercrime collaboration with Nigeria.
He also announced the creation of a special office at the Embassy to collaborate closely with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.