Momoh Receives Former Delaware Governor in Landmark Visit, Says Nigeria Is Safe and Open for Business

Momoh Receives Former Delaware Governor in Landmark Visit, Says Nigeria Is Safe and Open for Business....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The Minister of Regional Development, Hon. Engr. Abubakar Momoh, on Monday received Dr. Bethany Hall-Long, the immediate past Governor of the State of Delaware in the United States, in Abuja, marking a significant step in strengthening Nigeria–US development cooperation.

Dr. Hall-Long arrived Nigeria on what is her first international visit since leaving office, accompanied by her husband, a team of American investors, and Nigerian business leaders. Senator Uche Ekwunife also joined the high-level delegation as they engaged the minister on opportunities for economic and social collaboration.

Speaking during the meeting, the former governor outlined key areas of partnership including economic development, humanitarian initiatives, food security, health systems strengthening, and broader community-impact projects. She expressed her desire to build a healthy, long-term relationship with Nigeria and commended the country’s openness to global engagement.

Her visit comes at a time when political narratives in some quarters attempt to portray Nigeria as unsafe. Dr. Hall-Long’s choice of Nigeria as her first stop internationally serves as both a symbolic and practical endorsement of the nation’s stability and potential.

In his remarks, Minister Momoh warmly welcomed the delegation and described the visit as timely. He emphasized that despite isolated security challenges, Nigeria remains safe, friendly, and fully open for business, tourism, and foreign investment.

He urged the former governor to share her experience with the American public, stating that the real Nigeria is vibrant, secure, and full of opportunities. “Every nation has its own issues, but as you have seen, Nigeria is peaceful and welcoming,” he said.

The minister also highlighted the strategic role of the six Regional Development Commissions under his ministry, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to driving development directly to the grassroots. He expressed readiness to work with American partners through public-private partnerships and technical support across a wide range of sectors.

Momoh further disclosed that plans are underway for the establishment of ferry services across the Niger Delta, an initiative expected to boost transportation, commerce, and coastal connectivity.

Present at the meeting were the Minister of State for Regional Development, His Excellency Uba Maigari Ahmadu, the Special Adviser to the President attached to the ministry, Barrister James Ikhanoba, directors of the ministry, and other senior officials.

The visit ended with a renewed commitment from both sides to explore concrete areas of collaboration aimed at strengthening development ties between Nigeria and the United States.

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah reporting for iReporteronline.