The United States’ President, Donald Trump, on Monday congratulated his Nigerian counterpart, President Muhammadu Buhari, on the 59th anniversary of the nation’s independence.
In a letter personally signed by President Trump and made available to newsmen by the Public Affairs Section of the United States Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria, he expressed optimism to see an end to the Boko Haram insurgency that has ravaged the north-eastern parts of Nigeria, as well as Niger, Chad, Cameroon, and Mali.
“On behalf of the American people, I extend our warmest greetings and congratulate you on the 59th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence.
“Nigeria is among our strongest partners in Africa. We share common goals of expanding trade and growing our economic relationship.
“We are allies in the global battle against terrorism, and we want to see Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa driven out of the region and other insurgencies like them dismantled.
“The United States welcomes efforts by your administration to diversify opportunities for your talented, creative, and hardworking people to the benefit of both our countries, Africa, and the world.
“I am pleased that following our meeting last year, our Vice Presidents are also building on our longstanding history of cooperation.
“I wish the people of Nigeria continued success as you mark another year of independence,” the statement reads.