By Damilola Abiola
LAGOS — The United States Consulate General on Monday hosted a grand reception at the U.S. Consul General’s residence in Lagos to commemorate the 249th Independence Day of the United States of America, with a reaffirmation of its long-standing partnership with Nigeria in trade, investment, and shared democratic values.
Speaking at the event, Acting Consul General JoEllen Gorg welcomed dignitaries including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, other state governors and deputy governors, members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, and members of the diplomatic corps.
“Every Fourth of July, millions of Americans reflect on values that have defined us for nearly 250 years: freedom, excellence, and opportunity,” Gorg said. “Today, as we celebrate American independence, we also celebrate our enduring partnership with Nigeria.”
Gorg highlighted the shift in U.S. foreign policy to emphasize commercial engagement over aid, noting that the Biden administration—building on previous strategies—is working to expand economic partnerships across Africa.
“In May, we announced a new Commercial Diplomacy Strategy for Sub-Saharan Africa, and at the recently concluded U.S.-Africa Business Summit in Angola, several deals were signed that will further boost our economic partnership with the continent,” she said.
Gorg noted that Nigeria remains a key player in this vision, being one of only five African countries selected for the U.S.-Nigeria Commercial and Investment Partnership—a five-year initiative aimed at removing trade barriers and attracting investment in agriculture, digital economy, and infrastructure.
“Through this partnership, we aim to unlock investment and create well-paying jobs on both sides of the Atlantic,” she added. “It’s not starting from scratch—it’s building on a strong existing foundation.”
According to Gorg, trade between the two countries reached nearly \$13 billion in 2023, and U.S. foreign direct investment in Nigeria stood at \$6.5 billion—up by 5.5% from the previous year. Over 80 American companies currently operate in Nigeria across sectors ranging from energy to technology.
She also acknowledged the strength of the Nigerian diaspora in the U.S., calling it the “largest African diaspora community in America,” and one that is making significant strides in technology, finance, and healthcare.
“That’s the power of people-to-people ties, and it’s the bedrock of our economic future,” she said.
On travel, Gorg encouraged Nigerians planning to visit the U.S. to do so responsibly. “Please help convey this to your coworkers, your friends, and your family, and remember that each traveler from Nigeria is an ambassador for your country.”
She concluded with a rallying call to business leaders and public officials: “Let’s seize this opportunity to tackle trade bottlenecks, reduce investment barriers, and unlock the full potential of the U.S.-Nigeria partnership. The world’s eyes are on Nigeria—not just because of its size, but because of its growing influence.”
The evening featured cultural exchanges, entertainment, and reaffirmed the historic bond between both nations ahead of the United States’ milestone 250th anniversary in 2026.