President of the United States, Donald Trump, has officially welcomed Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States, Kayode Are, as he begins his diplomatic assignment in Washington.
The development has also drawn reactions from civil society organisations in Nigeria, with the Civil Society Organisations on Community Advancement and Humanitarian Empowerment Initiative (CSCHEI) commending President Bola Tinubu for what it described as a strategic diplomatic appointment.
In a statement signed by its Director-General, Kunle Yusuff, the organisation said Ambassador Are’s experience in diplomacy, security, and international relations could help strengthen cooperation between Nigeria and the United States across several sectors.
According to the group, both countries already maintain strong ties in areas such as healthcare, education, aviation, oil and gas, industry, and security collaboration.
CSCHEI also expressed appreciation to the United States government for accepting the envoy and facilitating the commencement of his official diplomatic duties.
The organisation further stated that its development partner, Africa United Congress USA, believes Ambassador Are possesses the professional capacity and integrity required to effectively represent Nigeria’s interests abroad.
The group described his official reception at the Oval Office as a sign of renewed diplomatic engagement and stronger institutional cooperation between both countries.
According to the statement, the appointment could also create new opportunities for collaboration involving international NGOs, development agencies, and accredited civil society organisations operating in Nigeria.
“The global community witnessed the official presentation at the Oval Office of the White House on Thursday, May 21. Capacity and performance in diplomacy are evident, and accredited civil society and community-based organisations in Nigeria are proud of Ambassador Kayode Are’s representation of the country,” the statement added.
The development comes at a time when Nigeria continues to seek stronger international partnerships on security, economic development, trade, and institutional cooperation with global allies, including the United States.