U.S. Consul General, Will Stevens’ has stated that 80 U.S. companies operating in Nigeria collectively pay billions of naira in taxes, create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and directly support various socioeconomic programmes that improve the lives of Nigerians.
Stevens, who made the declarations in his keynote address theme: ‘The Role of Technology in Fostering International Collaboration in an Interconnected World’, at the Omniverse Summit in Lagos on Thursday, said Nigeria is driving innovation and creative solutions to the challenges that vex Nigerians, Africans and people across the world, reports Sunday Independent.
According to him, “Four months ago, President Biden issued a landmark Executive Order on Safe, Secure and Trustworthy Development and Use of AI that emphasised collaboration with countries all over the world to develop and use artificial intelligence in a responsible manner.
“Before that, in 2022, the Biden-Harris Administration developed the Digital Transformation with Africa (DTA) initiative that aims to build partnerships with African countries to expand digital access, increase U.S.-Africa commercial relations, support increased digital literacy, and strengthen digital enabling environments across the continent.
“This initiative emphasizes “with” – Digital Transformation “with” Africa, not “for” Africa; as we believe that Africa on its own brings tremendous value to the global table”.
Stevens, specifically said: “Nigeria remains Africa’s largest economy and is the United States’ second-largest trading partner in Africa with two-way trade exceeding $10.6 billion in 2022.
“The United States is proud to be one of the largest foreign investors in Nigeria with FDI totaling $5.6 billion in 2022.
“There are over 80 U.S. companies operating in Nigeria, in manufacturing, fast-moving consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, technology.
“These companies collectively pay billions of naira in taxes, create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and directly support various socioeconomic programs that improve the lives of Nigerians.
“We are committed to supporting Nigeria and Africa on its journey to prosperity as we believe that a strong and prosperous Africa is good for the United States, and good for the world”
He hinted that: “As Africa’s largest economy, largest democracy and number one destination for venture capital – Nigeria is driving innovation and creative solutions to the challenges that vex Nigerians, Africans and people across the world.
“These innovative creators are reinforcing my deeply held belief that African solutions and African voices are critical and central to resolving the problems of the 21st century and beyond”.
“The world is changing at an unprecedented pace, fueled by the relentless innovation from an increasingly interconnected world”.
He noted that in the past decade, global internet traffic has grown by 700%, and mobile phone users have surpassed 6.6 billion.
“This increased connectivity creates boundless potential for cross-border collaboration – creating a global village where ideas can spark across oceans, and innovations can blossom through collective efforts.
“Imagine a world where researchers from across continents collaborate on groundbreaking medical discoveries, where engineers work together to tackle climate change, and where entrepreneurs share ideas and resources to build a more sustainable future.
“This is a present that we are already beginning to experience and a future that I am certain will mean a better world for our children and our children’s children.
“Together, we are using the latest technological innovations to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges in the areas of climate change, education, healthcare, agriculture, and other vital areas of development and economic growth.
“However, building these bridges requires more than just technological prowess. We must overcome challenges like cultural and linguistic barriers, unequal access to resources, and cybersecurity concerns.
“These challenges are not insurmountable. By embracing inclusivity, bringing capital to markets that need infrastructure investment, and developing robust cybersecurity measures, we can pave the way for fruitful international partnerships.”
