By Abbanobi -Eku Onyeka
Senate President Godswill Akpabio held talks with United States Ambassador Richard M. Mills Jr. on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to the National Assembly, underscoring both sides’ desire to deepen bilateral relations between Nigeria and the United States.
In a statement issued by Akpabio’s Special Assistant on Media/Communication, Anietie Ekong, the Senate President highlighted that Nigeria’s democratic system, modelled after that of the United States, requires continued nurturing.
“These are very difficult times but I’m happy my distinguished colleagues are here and we are having this engagement,” Akpabio said, adding that the visit was “one we have been looking forward to” as an opportunity to review the current state of Nigeria‑US relations.
Akpabio thanked Ambassador Mills for receiving him “during the 249th Independence Anniversary of your country” and noted the shared belief in “In God we trust,” emphasising that despite Nigeria’s religious and ethnic diversity, both nations “share something in common.”
He welcomed Mills to the 10th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Ambassador Mills, in brief remarks, stated that his visit aimed to discuss US‑Nigeria relations and explore ways the United States Mission could further mutual goals, while gaining insight into the Senate’s legislative agenda for the coming year.
The meeting reflects ongoing diplomatic efforts to strengthen economic, security and cultural cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, echoing recent bilateral discussions highlighted in broader Nigeria‑US cooperation talks.
