Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has described the current global and domestic climate as challenging, while welcoming renewed dialogue with the United States on strengthening bilateral ties. He made the remarks during a high-level meeting with the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills Jr., in Abuja.
The talks took place on Wednesday when the American envoy paid a courtesy visit to Akpabio at the National Assembly. Both sides used the engagement to reaffirm their commitment to deepening diplomatic, political and democratic cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.
Speaking during the meeting, Akpabio said Nigeria and the US share enduring democratic ideals, noting that Nigeria’s system of governance was largely inspired by the American model. He stressed the importance of sustained engagement, particularly at a time of evolving global challenges.
“These are very difficult times, but I am happy we are having this engagement,” Akpabio said, adding that the visit was long anticipated and reflective of the Senate’s desire to maintain open channels with Washington.
The Senate President also expressed appreciation to Ambassador Mills for hosting him during the 249th Independence Anniversary of the United States, praising America’s long democratic tradition. He acknowledged that Nigeria, by comparison, was still deepening its democratic experience.
Akpabio further highlighted long-standing cooperation between both nations, crediting shared values, faith, and institutional strength as foundations of the relationship. He welcomed the US envoy to the 10th Senate, describing the legislature as open to collaboration that advances mutual interests.
In his response, Ambassador Mills said the visit was aimed at engaging Nigeria’s legislative leadership on the state of US–Nigeria relations and exploring avenues for stronger cooperation. He added that the US Mission looked forward to aligning shared priorities while gaining insight into the Senate’s legislative agenda for the year ahead.
