INTERNATIONAL
JACK-RICH URGES STRONGER US-NIGERIA TRADE TIES
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and President of Belemaoil Producing Limited, Tein Jack-Rich, has called for stronger trade relations between Nigeria and the United States following high-level talks with American political strategist Roger Stone in Florida.
Jack-Rich made the call after a meeting at Mar-a-Lago, describing expanded economic cooperation between both nations as a necessary step that would benefit citizens of both countries.
In a statement issued on Thursday, he said discussions with Stone focused on improving commercial ties and creating fresh investment opportunities.
“Speaking positively about Nigeria and advancing trade opportunities between the United States and Nigeria remains a vital call to action for the benefit of both our peoples,” he said.
He stressed that closer collaboration between Abuja and Washington is especially important amid changing global trade patterns and growing calls for diversified economic partnerships.
“There is a shared commitment rooted in love of country and a push for real, big opportunity for national good,” he added.
Jack-Rich described the engagement as productive and forward-looking, noting that it reflected increasing interest in building mutually beneficial partnerships beyond traditional sectors.
“It was an absolutely wonderful experience with meaningful conversations and an atmosphere of genuine friendship and respect,” he said.
According to him, the latest visit was his third trip to Mar-a-Lago since 2024.
Nigeria remains one of the United States’ major trading partners in sub-Saharan Africa, with crude oil historically dominating exports.
However, trade volumes have fluctuated in recent years due to changing U.S. energy priorities and Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy.
Trade arrangements such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act have provided Nigerian products access to U.S. markets, but stakeholders continue to advocate broader cooperation in agriculture, manufacturing, infrastructure, and other non-oil sectors.
Jack-Rich has consistently promoted deeper U.S.–Africa economic engagement, particularly in energy and development-driven investments.
His latest remarks come as both countries show renewed interest in strengthening trade frameworks ahead of possible global economic realignments and future political shifts in the United States.
"This represents a significant development in our ongoing coverage of current events."— Editorial Board