From Bello Wakili
President Muhammadu Buhari has urged the United States to reconsider relocating US Africa Command, AFRICOM, from Stuttgart, Germany, to Africa.
The President equally called on the international community to support Nigeria and the sub-region in tackling the growing security challenges to avoid spillovers.
President Buhari, in a virtual meeting with the US Secretary of State, Mr. Anthony Blinken, said AFRICOM, which partners with countries to counter transnational threats, should be relocated to Africa to strengthen ongoing efforts to check the security situation, with likely effect on other nations.
He said despite the complex nature of the security situation, Nigeria and her security forces were resolutely committed to containing them and addressing their root causes.
The President said the support of an important and strategic partner like the United States would be appreciated as the consequences of insecurity would affect all nations, hence making it imperative for concerted co-operation of all nations to overcome the challenges.
He assured that Nigeria will enhance collaborations in all forms with friends and strategic partners, to work together for greater security.
President Buhari congratulated Blinken on his appointment, and commended the United States for its decision to review immigration restrictions and re-joining the World Health Organization (WHO) and Paris Agreement on Climate Change.
President Buhari noted that Nigeria remained resolute in her commitment to supporting global efforts as enshrined in the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, which seeks to limit global warming and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
According to the President, the convening of the Climate Change Summit last week by President Biden was a strong indication of the renewed interest of the United States to the Paris Agreement.
On his part, the US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said he was pleased to make Nigeria part of his first virtual visit to Africa, noting that Nigeria and the United States of America shared a lot in bilateral issues.
He added that he would be delighted to build on the foundation that was laid between the two countries over sixty years ago, disclosing that areas of discussion with Nigeria would include the development of their economies after the COVID-19 pandemic, security for vulnerable communities and climate issues.