Stevens added that with the recent visit to Nigeria by top US energy diplomacy official the US government will engage with Nigerian counterparts on energy matters.
By Jeffrey Agbo
United States Consul General Will Stevens on Thursday said US-trained Nigerians are leading economic transformation in Nigeria with knowledge acquired from studying in the States.
Mr Stevens stated this at the Africa Social Impact Summit 2023 held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Speaking on examples of US support for Africa’s development, he said, “I believe deeply in the power of people-to-people connections. They underpin the strength of our relationship with the continent. For example last year, Nigeria joined the top ten countries in the world in sending students to the USA. Many of these are graduate students who have finished a degree here in Nigeria. When these students complete their degrees, they come home with connections to research institutions in the USA, ties to investors, and connections to business partners. It sows the seeds of economic growth and is visible in nearly every industry from government to tech to agriculture to manufacturing – US educated and trained Nigerians are leading the economic growth that is powering the transformation of the economy.”
Stevens said that through increased trade and investment in sectors such as agriculture, technology, and infrastructure the US hopes to create jobs, boost innovation, and elevate the living standards of millions of Africans.
READ ALSO:
US Consulate supports first Nigerian Climate Resilience Salon
He further said, “Through initiatives such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), the United States has played a pivotal role in fostering two-way trade relationships that empower African economies and communities. By providing duty-free access to U.S. markets for eligible African nations including Nigeria, AGOA has paved the way for enhanced market access and economic diversification. Since its enactment in 2000, AGOA has facilitated a staggering $1 trillion in total trade. This is not just a number; it’s a testament to the fact that AGOA has contributed to the growth of industries across the African continent.
“The United States’ commitments to Africa extend to healthcare and human capital as well. Through initiatives, such as the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the U.S. government has invested over $100 billion in the global HIV/AIDS response, the largest commitment by any nation to address a single disease in history, saving 25 million lives!
“In addition, the United States has collaborated with African governments and organizations across the continent to bolster healthcare infrastructure, advance maternal and child health, and combat malaria, as well as other infectious diseases. These endeavors have not only saved lives but also nurtured a foundation of human capital that propels economic growth.”
The Consul General stressed at the summit themed ‘Global Vision, Local Action: Repositioning the African Development Ecosystem for Sustainable Outcomes’ his country’s commitment to promoting gender equality, women’s rights, and youth empowerment across the African continent through targeted initiatives, mentorship programs, and investments in entrepreneurship.
Stevens added that with the recent visit to Nigeria by top US energy diplomacy official the US government will engage with Nigerian counterparts on issues including energy access, energy security, decarbonization, clean energy supply chains, and methane emissions reduction.
“The United States is committed to Nigeria’s success in achieving its energy and climate goals and looks forward to hosting the first Energy Security Dialogue in the coming year,” he said.