President Barack Obama of the United States of America has invited Nigeria’s President Goodluck Jonathan and is expected to fly to the Washington DC early tomorrow, Sunday.
The major reason for the invitation, according to statement from the Nigeria’s Presidential spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, is for Jonathan to participate in a three-day United States-African Leaders Summit and for him to take time to explain efforts his government has done so far in the fight against Boko Haram insurgents.
Dr. Abati said that Presidents Jonathan and President Obama with about 50 other African leaders will engage in discussions that are expected to lead to greater progress in key areas, such as expanding trade and investment ties, promoting inclusive sustainable development and expanding cooperation on peace and security.
“The Summit, which is the first of its kind between an American President and African heads of state and government, is expected to greatly strengthen ties between the United States, Nigeria and other African countries.”
Abati said that special sessions are expected to be held on “Investing in Africa’s Future,” “Peace and Regional Stability” and “Governing the Next Generation.”
The summit, he added, will also feature side-events such as the United States-Africa Business Forum which has the objectives of boosting efforts to strengthen trade and financial ties between the United States and Africa, creating partnerships that will accelerate job creation, and encouraging more American investments in Nigeria and other African countries.
“President Jonathan is also scheduled to hold meetings in Washington with key United States political, security and business leaders on the sidelines of the summit to discuss the further expansion of bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in other areas, including the war against terrorism.”
President Jonathan will be accompanied to the summit by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Aminu Wali, the Coordinating Minster of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga, the Minister of Power, Professor Chinedu Nebo and the National Security Adviser, Colonel Sambo Dasuki (rtd.).
The President is expected back to Nigeria at the end of the summit, on Wednesday. [myad]
