U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to assist Nigeria fight corruption and ensure that no stolen funds are laundered through its banking system.
Entwistle stated this at the 240th U.S. Independence Anniversary celebration cocktail party in Abuja.
“As you fight corruption, we offer technical assistance, training for investigators and prosecutors, and a commitment to ensure that no stolen funds are laundered through our banking system,” he said.
The envoy, while commending Nigeria for improving its business climate, called for expanded trade and investment, pledging U.S. readiness to attract investors to develop Nigeria electricity sector.
“As you continue privatisation of the power grid, through President Obama’s Power Africa initiative, we stand ready to help companies invest in building more electricity infrastructure, especially environmentally-friendly power generation.
“As you increase your commitment to healthcare and education, we will support those efforts too,” he said.
Entwistle said that he was eager to see a deeper relationship between U.S. and Nigeria that would bring freedom for all Nigerians.
“Not just the political freedom you exercised last year, but freedom from fear, freedom from want, freedom from sickness, and freedom from corruption.
“The last election was tremendous democratic success, not only for Nigeria, but the growth of democracy across Africa.
“As you fight Boko Haram and secure and rebuild the Northeast, and as you strive for harmony in the Niger Delta and across the land, we will continue to help in every appropriate way.
“Indeed, let us redouble our efforts on the humanitarian front in the Northeast. Some Nigerians are dying of starvation. How can that be?” he said.
According to him, U.S. has worked with the government of Nigeria on a number of issues, like elections, security, fighting infectious disease, and spurring broad based inclusive economic growth.
“The future of Nigeria belongs to the people of Nigeria. More specifically, it belongs to Nigeria’s heroes, to those men and women who are brave enough to believe that they can change the world.
“The U.S. stands with every Nigerian who believes that this country can be healthier, safer, and more prosperous,” he said.
-NAN
