US at 238 urges action against terror

The country also identified the role of partnership in improving democracy. US Ambassador to Nigeria, James P. Entwistle, noted at the event: “As our fledgling democracy grew, we relied on security assistance from a number of international partners.  As time went on, our democratic ideals began to inspire the rest of the world.  The envoy […]

The country also identified the role of partnership in improving democracy. US Ambassador to Nigeria, James P. Entwistle, noted at the event: “As our fledgling democracy grew, we relied on security assistance from a number of international partners.  As time went on, our democratic ideals began to inspire the rest of the world.  
The envoy also pointed out that the US didn’t get to where it is by itself but took international partnership, diplomacy, an effective military, and government representatives who responsibly exercised their powers to develop and improve our democracy.
Speaking on US assistance to Nigeria, the ambassador said: “As we stand with Nigeria on its democratic journey, I want to make it clear that the assistance that we have offered over the years is in the same spirit as that offered to us by other nations as we began our democratic journey. You have many friends and partners who want Nigeria to succeed, and the United States stands at the front of that line.   Our security partnership is at the forefront of our work with Nigeria these days given the recent spate of kidnappings, bombings, and other despicable acts of terrorism by Boko Haram.  Let me be clear, we want Nigeria to win its war on terrorism.  And we are here to support you in that effort.  It may seem that we suddenly sprang to Nigeria’s aid in the wake of the Chibok kidnappings, but the truth is we’ve been providing support for a long time.  You’re our partners, and we’re going to continue this journey together”.
He also pointed out that defeating terrorism requires more than just military power, saying it requires protecting civilian populations despite terrorists’ disregard for human life in their campaign to wage war on the state and requires working to develop impoverished areas where extremism takes root.  It requires ensuring that education is accessible to all.  It requires empowering a free and fair press comprehensive, whole-of-government approach.  And the work we’re doing with the Nigerian government and people addresses all of these needs.”