US-Nigeria Partnership in the Changing Global Arena: A Conversation with the Foreign Minister of Nigeria, H. E. Amb. Y. M. Tuggar

Nigeria is one of the United States' most important partners in Africa. The longstanding partnership between both countries is built on areas of shared interests and values, and strong people-to-people ties. As Africa’s largest country, largest democracy, and the second largest US trading partner on the African continent, Nigeria is central to strengthening US-Africa relations. 

On May 15, H.E. Amb. Y. M. Tuggar joined the Wilson Center following the recently concluded sixth US-Nigeria Binational Commission (BNC) to share his insights on US-Nigeria partnership in the changing global arena and discuss Nigeria’s new foreign policy vision. The event began with introductory remarks from Robert S. Litwak, Senior Vice President and Director of International Security Studies at the Wilson Center, and Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Bureau of African Affairs, Rich Michaels.  

In his opening remarks, the Minister discussed the increasing multi-dimensional challenges facing both the United States and Nigeria and outlined the "4 D's" of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu's foreign policy agenda—democracy, development, demography, and diaspora engagement—while emphasizing the critical importance of collaboration and partnership toward these goals. In conversation with Africa Program Director Oge Onubogu, His Excellency touched on the importance of Nigeria's Global South partnerships, regional security and technological advancements. To conclude, the Minister answered questions pertaining to sustainable climate action, the emergence great power competition, the importance of Nigeria's creative industry and regional economic relations.