President Muhammadu Buhari has on Tuesday requested the United States to reconsider relocating the headquarters of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), a combatant command of the U.S from Germany to Africa to be closer to the Theatre of operation. Buhari made the disclosure on his official Twitter account following his virtual meeting with Antony Blinken, U.S Secretary of State who was on his first virtual visit to Africa since Joe Biden assumed office.
The U.S AFRICOM counters transnational threats and responds to crises in a bid to boost U.S national interest, strengthening security forces and promoting stability and prosperity.
President Buhari said the AFRICOM headquarters being situated in Africa will make a significant impact on the growing security challenges in West and Central Africa as well as the Gulf of Guinea axis, the Lake Chad region, and the Sahel.
He noted that Nigeria’s security forces are committed to curbing the current security threats with a view to addressing the root causes, also, urging the support of the U.S and other strategic partners.
Buhari lauded President Biden for the U.S rejoining the WHO and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change as well as reversing the travel restrictions on Muslim nations and African countries including Nigeria.
"I also expressed appreciation to President Biden for his welcome decision to repeal the restrictions on travel and visas for citizens predominantly from Muslim nations and African countries, including Nigeria; as well as re-joining the WHO and Paris Agreement on Climate Change," Buhari said.
He assured that Nigeria will remain committed to supporting global efforts in line with the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.
