President Bola Tinubu has acknowledged his participation in various protests throughout his political career but stressed the importance of maintaining non-violence during demonstrations.
The President made these remarks while receiving the Letter of Credence from the newly appointed United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Richard Mills Jr., at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
During the ceremony, President Tinubu emphasized the critical role of peaceful protests in a democratic society, highlighting that they are a fundamental aspect of democracy and a legitimate way for citizens to express their grievances.
However, he noted that no government would tolerate protests that escalate into violence, leading to the destruction of lives and property.
The President reiterated his commitment to sustaining democracy and its institutions in Nigeria, ensuring that citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression are protected.
He expressed optimism about the continued partnership between Nigeria and the United States, particularly in areas of democratic governance and institutional support.
The President said, “Our relationship with America is rich. We believe in democracy and freedom. Some of your predecessors worked hard during our transition to democracy, and we remember the likes of Ambassador Howard Jeter.
“We look forward to Nigeria and the United States continuously working to expand cooperation on shared goals and democratic values.
“During the military era, we made our voices heard against dictatorship, and I was part of the group that engaged in peaceful protests without resorting to the destruction of property. We have worked hard to ensure 25 years of unbroken democracy, and I will continue to maintain this democracy.”
The President said in as much as he believes that demonstrations are part of democracy, “we will never encourage any protests that lead to the destruction of lives and property”.
Welcoming the U.S. State Department’s acknowledgement of Nigeria’s strategic role on the continent as Africa’s largest democracy, President Tinubu called on the U.S. government to pay more attention to Africa.
He further stated, “Nigeria is ready to play its role as the largest democracy in Africa that is worthy of emulation to other African countries, but we need more U.S. partnership on the continent that is beneficial to both sides. We believe in freedom, and we are providing the leadership to make Nigeria’s economy grow.”
Ambassador Mills affirmed U.S. support for Nigeria’s democracy and pledged support for bigger roles for Nigeria in the international arena.
Mills said, “Nigeria is crucial to the United States because we share democratic values, and we are ready to give you all the support.
“I am here to make sure that the relationship blossoms both on democracy and the economic side.”
Expressing the United States’ commitment to expanding cooperation with Nigeria on cybercrimes, the Ambassador announced the establishment of a special office at the Embassy to work closely with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
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