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The 36 state governors, under the auspices of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, have emphasised the need to deepen cooperation with the United States of America on economic development, governance, and health.

In a communique issued after its meeting in Abuja, NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, reaffirmed their commitment to working with state legislatures to promote governance reforms and ensure effective policy implementation at the subnational level.

The communique stated, “The Forum engaged with the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, who shared his vision for a renewed and dynamic partnership between Nigeria and the United States. Highlighting a shift from a donor-recipient model to one of mutual collaboration, he underscored the importance of fostering economic opportunities for Nigerians.”

“The Ambassador outlined four key priorities that will guide U.S. engagement with Nigeria: Enhancing trade and improving the business environment to attract investments and drive economic growth. Promoting transparency and accountability in governance to strengthen institutions.”

According to the communique, the Ambassador added, “Supporting subnational governments to bolster development at the state level and establishing sustainable, Nigeria-led health programs to ensure long-term impact and resilience.”

“Governors welcomed this renewed approach and emphasized the critical role of states in driving economic and social development. The Forum looks forward to deepening cooperation with the U.S. on these shared priorities.”

The NGF also urged the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Ibrahim, to expand the Nigeria For Women Project, which focuses on enhancing women’s economic empowerment through Women Affinity Groups.

It continued, “The Forum received a briefing from the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs on the Nigeria For Women Project (NFWP) Scale-Up, expanding nationwide from its initial six-state implementation. The project aims to support women’s economic empowerment through Women Affinity Groups (WAGs), livelihood grants, and capacity-building initiatives, contributing to the goal of lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty.”

“The Forum engaged with the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria (COSLON) to discuss key issues, including strengthening synergy between COSLON and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), and ensuring subnational perspectives are well-represented in the ongoing constitutional review process.”

“COSLON also informed the Forum of their partnership with Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) to digitize the State Houses of Assembly, aimed at enhancing legislative efficiency and transparency.”

“Governors reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with state legislatures to advance governance reforms and ensure effective policy implementation at the subnational level.”