Mr. Tein Jack-Rich has emphasised the importance of strengthening engagement with policymakers and business leaders in Washington, saying such relationships are vital to advancing Nigeria’s economic and strategic interests.
Jack-Rich, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), made the remarks in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) after receiving an award at the Celebrate America 250 event held on Wednesday in Washington, D.C.
The President of Belemaoil Group described the recognition as more than a personal honour, saying it provided an opportunity to amplify Nigeria’s voice and strengthen Africa’s position in U.S. policy and investment discussions.
“It is a great honour to celebrate U.S. 250 and have the opportunity to be in the right network to help Nigeria, help Africa and give both a stronger voice,” he said.
According to Jack-Rich, building meaningful relationships with policymakers, investors and other key stakeholders is essential to unlocking new trade, investment and development opportunities for Nigeria and the wider African continent.
“I have consistently advocated building trade platforms and opportunities where the dignity of African people becomes part of the strategic policy priorities of this administration,” he said.
He noted that direct engagement with influential decision-makers in Washington allows Nigeria to present its own narrative while fostering greater international confidence in the country’s potential.
“We had congressmen, senior politicians, business leaders and the President’s son listening carefully to Africa’s perspective. That is the value of being in the right room,” he said.
Jack-Rich described such high-level interactions as particularly valuable during periods of national and continental challenges, stressing that they create opportunities to influence policy and strengthen partnerships.
He said Africa’s abundant natural resources and youthful population make the continent one of the world’s most attractive investment destinations.
“Africa has enormous resources, and platforms like this allow us to tell the Nigerian story from an African point of view,” he said.
During discussions with American leaders, Jack-Rich said he highlighted Nigeria’s strategic role in regional security and economic development.
“The President’s involvement in helping Nigeria address insecurity has drawn global attention, created greater responsibility and reinforced the importance of sustained engagement,” he said.
He urged the United States to view Africa as a long-term strategic partner rather than merely a supplier of raw materials.
“The U.S. should know that Africa is an important ally,” he said.
Jack-Rich also revealed that some American participants raised concerns about the growing influence of rival global powers across Africa.
“They talked about countries like China and Russia. I told them the issue is that Africa naturally partners with those who make themselves available,” he said.
According to him, African countries are primarily motivated by the pursuit of growth, investment and development opportunities.
“The African people are looking for opportunities to grow. Whatever opportunities are available are naturally the ones they engage,” he said.
Despite this, Jack-Rich maintained that partnerships with the United States offer the greatest long-term value because of America’s strong institutions, innovation and enduring investment culture.
“A partnership with the U.S. is more sustainable because its footprints can outlive generations,” he said.
He said the Celebrate America 250 event underscored the importance of people-to-people diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relations and fostering mutual understanding.
Jack-Rich expressed confidence that deeper cooperation in energy, agriculture, infrastructure, technology and trade would unlock Nigeria’s economic potential and accelerate development across Africa.
“Africa has everything it needs to realise its full potential. What we require are trusted partnerships, expanded opportunities and greater access to global markets,” he said.
The high-profile event attracted prominent participants, including Eric Trump, members of the U.S. Congress such as Rep. Jim Jordan, senior political figures, business leaders and international dignitaries.
Source:NAN
