'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
• Trade and Investment: A $10 Billion Corridor in Need of Revitalization
• Security Ties: From Boko Haram to Sahel Instability
• The Way Forward: Resetting US-Nigeria Relations in a Multipolar World
DAILY COURIER - As Donald Trump prepares to retake the presidency following the conclusion of Joe Biden’s tenure, Nigeria stands at a critical juncture in its bilateral relationship with the United States. The Biden administration emphasized diplomacy and multilateral cooperation with Nigeria, focusing on trade, security, and democratic governance. However, Trump's return offers opportunities to reset priorities and address challenges in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
Economic Ties: A $10 Billion Trade Partnership
Trade has historically been a cornerstone of US-Nigeria relations. Nigeria is one of the United States’ largest trading partners in Africa, with trade volumes peaking at $10 billion annually. Under Biden, the US supported Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy, particularly through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which allowed duty-free exports to the US. However, Nigeria's overreliance on crude oil—accounting for 88% of exports to the US—left other sectors underdeveloped.
Trump's previous tenure leaned heavily on bilateral trade agreements and protectionism. A reset under his administration could focus on expanding Nigeria's manufacturing and tech industries to reduce dependency on oil while addressing the trade imbalance that has long tilted in America’s favor.
Security Cooperation: A Shared Fight Against Extremism
The US has been a key partner in Nigeria’s battle against Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents. American military assistance, including the delivery of Super Tucano fighter jets and counterterrorism training, has been vital in strengthening Nigeria’s defense capabilities.
However, escalating instability in the Sahel and a growing threat from transnational crime syndicates call for enhanced collaboration. Trump’s "America First" stance previously scaled down US involvement in African security initiatives. Nigeria must advocate for sustained—and potentially increased—support in counterinsurgency operations and intelligence-sharing as the Trump administration shapes its African policy.
Education and Cultural Exchange: Strengthening Ties Through People
The US remains the top destination for Nigerian students abroad, with over 13,000 Nigerians enrolled in American universities annually. Educational exchange programs, including the Fulbright and Mandela Washington Fellowships, have deepened cultural ties between both nations.
Biden expanded funding for these initiatives, while Trump’s earlier term saw cuts to international educational programs. Nigeria should proactively engage the new administration to preserve and potentially expand these programs, which contribute to fostering mutual understanding and economic mobility for Nigerian youths.
Diplomatic Shifts: Navigating a Multipolar World
Under Biden, Nigeria benefited from increased engagement through the US-Africa Leaders Summit and partnerships addressing climate change and global health crises like COVID-19. Trump’s earlier disengagement from multilateral diplomacy could complicate Nigeria’s global positioning, particularly as it balances its ties with China, a major rival to US influence in Africa.
Resetting the Agenda
As Trump prepares to take office, Nigeria must articulate a clear agenda for strengthening US-Nigeria relations. Key priorities include:
1. Advocating for fair trade practices that promote industrialization and create jobs.
2. Securing long-term military assistance to address evolving security threats.
3. Preserving and expanding educational and cultural exchanges.
4. Balancing Nigeria’s strategic partnerships with the US and other global powers.
US-Nigeria relations have weathered different administrations, thriving on shared values of democracy, economic growth, and peace. While Trump’s return brings uncertainties, it also presents an opportunity for Nigeria to redefine its role as a strategic partner. With proactive diplomacy and strategic engagement, both nations can navigate the complexities of a changing world to foster mutual prosperity.
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