US, UK Back Tinubu’s Economic Reforms, Express Sympathy for Protest Victims

On Wednesday, August 7, the United States and United Kingdom governments expressed their support for President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, emphasizing their importance for Nigeria’s future prosperity. Both nations also called on the Nigerian government to engage in dialogue with those leading the ongoing protests in the country.

During a briefing with the Diplomatic Corps in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, hosted British High Commissioner Richard Montgomery and US Ambassador Richard Mills. The envoys commended the Nigerian security forces for their restraint in managing the protests, avoiding the use of lethal force.

Montgomery praised the coordination among policing agencies and the government’s commitment to maintaining peace. He stated, “This is a big and complex situation, and we have noted very clearly the commitment to enabling a peaceful process and the commitment to policing proportionately. We fully support the significant economic reforms currently underway in Nigeria, which are essential for the country’s future prosperity and our economic relationships.”

US Ambassador Mills echoed these sentiments, expressing sympathy for those affected by the protests. “We extend our condolences for the loss of life and suffering in Nigeria over the past several days,” he said. “While we understand the challenges posed by President Tinubu’s reforms, we believe they are necessary, and we stand by the administration as they implement these changes.”

The joint support from the US and UK highlights the international community’s recognition of the critical nature of Nigeria’s economic reforms, despite the hardships they may entail. Both nations also underscored the importance of continued dialogue and peacebuilding efforts in the face of ongoing public discontent.