Boko Haram: US pledges more support for Nigeria

The United States has pledged its commitment to deepen its support for Nigeria’s quest to overcome the security challenges facing the country.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, Anthony Bliken, made the pledge yesterday while addressing newsmen on the outcome of the U.S. team’s Wednesday meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari.

Bliken said the meeting was part of the arrangements to ensure a successful visit to Washington by Buhari on July 20.

He said the meeting with Buhari focused on President Barak Obama administration’s plans for Nigeria and how to meet them.

“In particular, we discussed practical ways to strengthen security and Boko Haram’s horrific acts of terror and violence.”

He said defeating Boko Haram required a comprehensive approach that involved the region and includes not only a strong military response but also sustainable security for liberated areas.

Bliken said this also included good governance, development, and opportunity for the civilian population.

“It also requires a strong commitment to human rights, the absence of which only alienates the people and drives them toward Boko Haram.

“As Nigeria develops this comprehensive approach, the U.S. will deepen its support. We also discussed how to develop the economy, to combat corruption and to make government more effective and transparent.

“We will be working very hard to assist the government of Nigeria in providing the training, equipment, device, information intelligence sharing, and logistic support.

“So many internally displaced persons need help now, all of these are in a comprehensive package for Nigeria,” he said.

According to him, the meeting reflected on how to advance a more secure, prosperous and peaceful future for Nigerians.

“The partnership we are forging is based on mutual interests and mutual respect.