Ambassador Samantha Power

U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations

U.S. Mission to the United Nations

Abuja, Nigeria

April 21, 2016

Ambassador Power met today with Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Nigeria. Ambassador Power expressed appreciation to President Buhari for his efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s military‎ and its recent progress in combatting Boko Haram. She underscored that the United States is committed to strengthening its partnership with Nigeria to bolster this campaign.

Ambassador Power emphasized the need to complement a robust military campaign with sustained efforts to develop economic opportunities and strengthen governance, political inclusion, and respect for human rights. She noted that this mirrored the Buhari administration’s priorities of security, economic growth, and democratic accountability.

‎Ambassador Power previewed her trip to northeastern Nigeria on April 22. She noted the acute humanitarian crisis in the area and stressed the importance of the government of Nigeria, backed by the international community, taking urgent action to address widespread malnutrition among displaced populations. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that conditions in northeastern Nigeria improve prior to efforts to facilitate the voluntary return of refugees.

Ambassador Power conveyed President Obama’s desire to strengthen the ties between the Nigerian and American people and to advance our bilateral relationship in critical areas, including trade and investment.