Amb. Richard Mills: Nigeria’s Future in Emerging Technologies is Bright, Pledges US Support

Funke Olaode

The United States envoy to Nigeria, Ambassador Richard Mills has praised Nigeria’s impact as a technology hub in the continent and promised that his country will support the country in emerging technologies.

The diplomat made this remark at a reception organized by the U.S. Consulate-General in honor of him in Lagos, last week Friday.

At the well attended gathering, Ambassador Mills had an interface with notable figures from Nigeria’s government, business, and cultural sectors, chatting an insightful conversations aimed at strengthening collaboration and mutual growth between the United States and Nigeria.

Recognising Nigeria’s future in the tech and Artificial intelligence spaces, the United States has pledged to bring in emerging technologies to support the country.

He added that the technologies will be applied to the creative industries, art, film, music and literature. “I don’t need to tell you that Nigeria, the largest economy on the continent, the largest democracy and anchor state for the future of this continent is an important partner and the United States. US wants Nigeria to have a bigger role and a bigger voice in world affairs, because we share the same values, we see the world in many of the same ways. So I’m very happy to be here at the instructions of the Secretary of State and President Biden to help encourage Nigeria to step up and speak loudly and speak frankly to us,” Mills stated.

He noted that the bonds between the two countries are not just government to government, but a deep one. “The connections between the Nigerian and the American people are deep and they’re strong. I’m very proud that every year over 17,000 Nigerian students choose to study in U.S. colleges and U.S. universities. And on any given year, there are over 400 Nigerians participating in U.S. government exchange and fellowship programs.

“The connections that these Nigerian students and these Nigerian fellows forge with American higher education institutions, with American businesses, really feel lifelong collaboration between our people.

“As ambassador, I am committed to strengthening our collaboration in areas old and in these new areas.”

Among others, the ambassador admires Nigeria for its culture, warm, welcoming, outgoing people with immense potential.

The evening attracted many dignitaries such as, Commissioner of police Lagos State, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Lagos State Speaker, Hon. Obasa, wife of Ooni of Ife, Olori Mariam Ogunwusi, Banking magnate, Atedo Peterside, Erelu Abiola Dosunmu, Former Delta State Governor, James Ibori among others.