During a press briefing at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday, US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, reiterated his country’s commitment to partnering with African nations, emphasizing specific areas of collaboration for development.
Blinken, who is on an African tour, highlighted the United States’ support for initiatives such as the use of artificial intelligence for positive impact, the blue economy, and climate action in Africa.
During the briefing, he expressed a keen interest in driving a technological revolution in Nigeria for the mutual benefit of both nations.
The Secretary of State conveyed the eagerness of American entrepreneurs and companies to collaborate and invest in the Nigerian economy, particularly in the technology sector.
He pointed out partnerships with Nigerian counterparts to contribute to President Bola Tinubu’s one million digital jobs initiative.
Blinken stated, “Our tech incubators are fostering Nigeria’s next startups.
Our venture capital companies are working to finance, so we want to work in partnership to help drive Nigeria’s technological revolution, which is creating jobs, growing businesses, and springing innovations in both of our countries.”
While acknowledging the substantial opportunities for investors in Nigeria, Blinken also addressed long-term challenges that need attention for unlocking the nation’s full potential.
He specifically mentioned insecurities and corruption as a hurdle that must be overcome.
“Nigeria offers real, clear, and compelling opportunities for investors.
At the same time, I think it is no secret that there remain some long-term challenges that need to be overcome to really unlock the full potential,” he commented.
“Tackling corruption, making it easier for foreign companies to repatriate capital – these will all pull in a transformative direction and investment.”
Blinken welcomed what he termed as “bold economic reforms” by President Bola Tinubu, applauding measures such as the unification of the exchange rate and the removal of the petrol subsidy.