The United States of America’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr. says his country wants Nigeria to have a bigger role and voice in world affairs.
Mr Mills said this is because both countries share the same values and could achieve more.
The ambassador said he was committed to strengthening collaboration in areas old and new.
He said this during his welcome reception hosted by the US Consulate in Lagos on Friday, September 13, 2024, night.
Mr Mills was confirmed to be US Ambassador to Nigeria on May 2, 2024, and presented his letter of credence to President Bola Tinubu in July.
He recently served as Deputy Representative of the US to the United Nations.
“I am very happy to be here with the instructions of the Secretary of State and President Biden to help encourage Nigeria to step up and speak loudly,” Mr Mills said.
He said that the partnership between both countries was evolving.
According to him, the just-concluded Global Inclusivity and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Africa (GIAA) Conference in Lagos reflected how Nigeria is moving ahead to bring in emerging technologies and recognise her future in the tech space, AI space and creative industries.
“Our bonds together are not just government-to-government. They are people-to-people.
“The connections between Nigerian and American people are deep and strong,” he said.
Mr Mills noted that he was proud that every year, over 17,000 Nigerian students chose to study in US colleges and universities, adding that yearly, there were over 400 Nigerians participating in US Government exchange and fellowship programmes.
“The connections that these Nigerian students and these Nigerian fellows forge with Americans, with higher education institutions, and with American businesses are a lifelong collaboration between our peoples,” the ambassador said.
