Promise and Peril in Nigeria

CSIS hosted an address by Ambassador Johnnie Carson, Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, on U.S. engagement with Nigeria. As Africa’s most populous nation, the world’s eighth largest exporter of oil, a rapidly emerging economic power and investment destination, and a significant player in regional and continental affairs, Nigeria is among the United States’ most important partners in Africa.  At the same time, the violent aftermath of the 2011 national elections, escalating attacks by militant group Boko Haram, a resurgence of violence in the oil-producing Niger Delta, and the continued influence of powerful vested interests underscore the many challenges that the country’s government and citizenry confront. Assistant Secretary Carson will offer his perspective on the breadth and complexity of U.S. engagement with Nigeria and the future of relations with this important U.S. partner.