SPEECHES

Press Statement

Ambassador Robin Sanders Presents Credentials

December 3, 2007

It is with great pleasure that I arrive here to my second home, as the Ambassador of the United States of America, to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.  I have been well-received by the President of the Republic today during my credential ceremony, and I bring not only personal greetings from my President to him, but also a personal invitation for him to meet with my President.  The friendship between our two countries is firm and I say to you today that the U.S. – Nigerian bilateral relationship is strong.

Nigerians and Americans are connected in so many ways.  Not only do the people of both nations respect democracy and want to see it flourish, but we are both nations of diversity . . . believing that it should be respected and embraced.  It is both this belief in democracy and respect for diversity that gives our two nations strength and dignity.

In addition to the important U.S. – Nigerian government –to-government ties, it is important to note the strong people-to-people ties that exist between our two countries as many thousands of Americans live in Nigeria and over a million people of Nigerian descent live in the United States of America. Nigerians by far are the largest and most well-educated African immigrant group in the United States, and business and cultural ties between our two nations are at an all time high, underscored again tomorrow by the arrival of another major U.S. airline carrier, Delta, which will provide the second direct air link connecting our two nations.

Americans support and believe in the Nigerian people as “change makers” . . . who will ensure that . . . their country solidifies the principles and pillars of democracy for the country’s future.  We recognize that the Nigerian people have noted their desire for good governance, rule of law, and respect for global human values.  And, the United States of America is walking step by step in partnership with President Yar’ Adua and his government, to support his efforts in achieving these noble goals for the Nigerian people.  America is Nigeria’s supporter. . .  America is Nigeria’s partner . . .  and most importantly, America is Nigeria’s friend.   Thank you.