From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has engaged the United States Deputy Secretary of State, Kurt Campbell, on bilateral cooperation.
The Acting Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, made the disclosure in a statement issued in Abuja.
The engagement follows the recent signing of the Asset Return Agreement between the United States and Nigeria regarding the $52.88 million repatriated assets from the United States linked to former Petroleum Resources Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke.
Ebienfa said Tuggar held a constructive phone conversation yesterday (Wednesday) with Campbell, reinforcing the strong and enduring partnership between Nigeria and the United States as both nations continue to address key bilateral issues of mutual interest.
He also noted that the conversation highlighted the recent successful repatriation of assets linked to luxury real estate and the Galactica Star superyacht.
The spokesperson added that both parties acknowledged the importance of such collaborative efforts in fostering transparency and accountability.
“The discussion also explored opportunities to leverage technology to transform digital assets into mutually beneficial ventures. Furthermore, Amb Yusuf Maitama Tuggar emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to its robust gas energy transition plans, underscoring the country’s dedication to sustainable development and clean energy initiatives.
“Amb Yusuf Maitama Tuggar expressed gratitude for Deputy Secretary Campbell’s dedication to the successful forfeiture and repatriation of funds and extended best wishes in his future endeavours,” Ebienfa stated.
Ebienfa also said the engagement between Tuggar and Campbell reaffirmed the shared commitment between Nigeria and the United States to deepen cooperation on critical issues and advance initiatives that benefit both nations.