Nigeria will overcome separatist agitators -US Envoy

Though certain individuals have engaged in separatist agitations against the corporate unity of Nigeria, an unusual voice from the United States has insisted that there is no cause for alarm.

Faulting the calls by the separatists, the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Stuart Symington, stated that Nigerians who preach unity will overcome those calling for secession.

The US ambassador spoke in Abuja on Thursday during an event in commemoration of the 241st anniversary of American independence.

According to Symington, the US and Nigeria shared many similarities, especially on the issue of diversity.

The US envoy further disclosed that the first American President, George Washington, had warned that those who seek to weaken a country would always seek to start by causing disunity.

He added that just like the US, Nigeria would remain a united country on the grounds of its determined people and leaders.

Symington said, “Every time we have been challenged, we overcame danger because we had visionary leaders committed to union and citizens committed to ensuring justice for all.

“Today, Nigeria is fortunate to have such leaders and citizens. Together, they are dedicated to keeping Nigeria united and just and to ensuring every Nigerian is heard and taken into account and treated fairly.

“Together, those Nigerians will overpower any call to divide this nation.

“Thanks to them, thanks to you, the lamp of unity and justice burns brightly both in our nations tonight. And the sight of a united Nigeria’s light lifts Africa and with it, the world.”

The US envoy also said that Nigeria’s diversity is an inspiration to many countries.

He further disclosed that just like the US, Nigeria’s plurality was a source of strength, saying that the development will continue to be the antidote against separatist agitators.

He said, “Wherever I meet a Nigerian, I ask ‘What do you like the most about your country?’ I like our diversity, our resilience, our energy, our warmth, our spirit, our food.’

“Just like the United States, Nigeria is a wonderfully diverse nation whose differences and diversity are sources of strength and reason for pride.”