By BANNERNEWS Reporter
Abuja – Dr. Betta Edu on Sunday hosted the 111th Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, at her residence in Abuja, in a meeting focused on deepening U.S.–Nigeria collaboration across security, health, humanitarian response, and economic development.
Mayor Adams, a former police officer and two-term President of the New York City Council, served as New York City’s 111th mayor from January 2022 to December 2025. The Abuja engagement marked his first international visit since leaving office.
The meeting comes amid growing U.S. concerns over insecurity in Nigeria and emerging gaps in the country’s health and humanitarian sectors following recent reductions in international aid. Discussions also highlighted the renewed efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to strengthen international cooperation in protecting vulnerable communities.
Speaking after the meeting, Dr. Edu said the dialogue offered a platform to present Nigeria’s security realities from a citizen-focused perspective. She commended the Federal Government’s efforts to curb insecurity, while drawing attention to humanitarian challenges and funding gaps created by declining external support.
Health sector reforms were a major focus, particularly Nigeria’s push toward Universal Health Coverage. Dr. Edu noted that high out-of-pocket healthcare costs continue to exacerbate poverty, stressing the need for sustained international investment and partnerships.
On economic matters, she described Nigeria’s economy as stabilizing and open to mutually beneficial investments. She urged Adams to leverage his global influence to attract investors, grants, and development funding into critical sectors.
Dr. Edu called for holistic U.S.–Nigeria collaboration, emphasizing that support should extend beyond security to include health, education, and humanitarian services. She also encouraged Adams to mobilize the Nigerian diaspora in New York to promote a positive image of Nigeria and contribute to national development.
“I feel honoured to receive him, and Nigeria will greatly benefit from this strategic visit,” Dr. Edu said. “We believe he will use his global platform to advocate for Nigeria and mobilize support for our people.”
Mayor Adams praised the Nigerian community in New York, urging them to stay connected to their roots. “You are Nigerian-American, not American-Nigerian,” he said, pledging to use his networks to attract investments, grants, and programs that can reduce insecurity, improve healthcare delivery, and expand education access.
In a gesture of cultural pride, Dr. Edu presented Adams with locally made souvenirs, including beautifully crafted Adire fabrics, showcasing Nigeria’s rich heritage.
