U.S. Consul General Will Stevens’ Visit to Edo State Highlights Bilateral Relationship and Economic Growth Opportunities

U.S. Consul General Will Stevens recently completed a two-day visit to Edo State, Nigeria, emphasizing the strong and enduring relationship between the United States and Nigeria. During his visit, Consul General Stevens engaged with Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, civil society representatives, and alumni of U.S. government exchange programs.

One of the key highlights of the visit was the launch of the U.S. Agency for International Development-supported Edo State Integrated Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC). This state-of-the-art facility, the first of its kind in Nigeria, will play a crucial role in analyzing data on various public health concerns, enhancing Edo State’s response to emerging health threats.

Consul General Stevens also inaugurated the GirlLEAD STEM Talent Accelerator Program, which aims to empower and inspire young girls to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. The program provides mentorship and skills training to 25 girls from public secondary schools in Edo State, supported by a public diplomacy grant from the U.S. Consulate General Lagos.

Additionally, Consul General Stevens visited various cultural landmarks in Benin City, including the National Museum and Igun Street, demonstrating the U.S. government’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s cultural preservation.

His visit underscored the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties between the two countries and promoting inclusive economic growth and shared prosperity. The engagements between the Consul General and key stakeholders in Edo State highlighted the mutual priorities of health, technology, education, and trade and investment, further strengthening the bilateral relationship between the United States and Nigeria.