Press Release

U.S. Mission Nigeria Celebrates 229th Independence Anniversary, Dedicates New Chancery

July 13, 2005

Abuja - On Wednesday, July 13th, Ambassador John Campbell and General Charles E. Williams (Retired), Director and Chief Operating Officer, Overseas Buildings Operations jointly unveiled the plaque to dedicate U.S. Mission's new chancery in Abuja the Federal Capital in a ceremony that includes the Nation's 229th Independence Anniversary.

Mr. Abraham Adjei Gbenda, a new American of West African origin and one of the newest members of the mission read President Bush's 2005 Independence Proclamation.

Ambassador Campbell took a moment to express condolences of the American people to those affected by the terrorist attacks in London last Thursday.

The Ambassador said the new chancery building reflect and symbolize the enriched relations between the United States and Nigeria. He said the U.S. Government's decision to build a brand new edifice is an outward and visible sign of the warm and fraternal relationship that exists between the two countries. "We enjoy a special relationship built on trust and common goals. We share so much in common, not least of which are a culture and history that have been intermingled for more than 200 years," said Ambassador Campbell.

Ambassador Campbell said the US and Nigeria shares a lot in common, including the burdens of international leadership. He said the challenges of democracy and leadership are no greater than the opportunities. "If Nigeria's 2007 elections are a success, they will demonstrate to the world Nigeria's capacity to forge a consensus among its diverse ethnic, religious, cultural and linguistic people through democratic practices. They would solidify Nigeria's democratic aspirations and further institutionalize democracy as the preferred form of government in this remarkable land, he advised.

The Independence Anniversary and new chancery dedication ceremony was attended by some current and past Nigerian leaders, top Nigerian government officials and legislators, the diplomatic community, international business leaders, community and religious leaders.