Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, has underscored the strategic importance of strong and mutually beneficial relations between Nigeria and the United States, describing the partnership as vital for economic growth, democratic stability, and global development.
Elumelu noted that Nigeria–U.S. relations have historically been anchored on shared values, long-standing friendship, and deep economic and people-to-people ties. Drawing from his personal and professional experiences, he highlighted the influence of American business leaders on his entrepreneurial journey and philanthropic philosophy, as well as his educational ties to the United States.
He also emphasized the role of the United Bank for Africa (UBA Group), which he chairs, as the only African bank licensed to operate in the U.S., employing Americans and serving as a key platform for strengthening business relations between Africa and the United States.
Beyond commerce, Elumelu described the relationship as strategically significant. He pointed out that Nigeria remains Africa’s largest democracy and a stabilizing force for civil society in a volatile region. He cited long-standing trade links, including U.S. imports of Nigerian crude oil and Nigeria’s role as a major market for American agricultural products such as wheat and rice.
Elumelu further highlighted the contributions of the Nigerian diaspora in the U.S., describing Nigerian Americans as one of the most economically successful and highly educated groups in the country. According to him, more than 60 percent of Nigerian Americans aged 25 and above hold a bachelor’s degree, while 17 percent have a master’s degree, with a majority employed in management, business, science, and the arts.
He observed that Nigeria–U.S. relations are currently at a critical juncture, shaped by heightened U.S. attention to Nigeria’s security challenges and recent policy developments that have drawn global scrutiny. Elumelu called this a moment for open dialogue, clarity, and renewed emphasis on the mutually beneficial dimensions of the bilateral relationship.
Against this backdrop, Elumelu hosted a bipartisan delegation of six U.S. Congressional leaders at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, describing the meeting as marked by candid discussions and shared commitment to strengthening bilateral engagement.
During the engagement, he stressed Africa’s growing global importance, noting the continent’s vast mineral resources and its strategic relevance amid increasing competition among global powers. He emphasized that Africa must take control of its destiny and avoid repeating historical mistakes, adding that the continent’s demographic growth makes its success a global responsibility.
Elumelu acknowledged Nigeria’s ongoing challenges, particularly insecurity, which affects lives, livelihoods, and investor confidence. However, he also emphasized the country’s resilience, reform efforts, and significant economic potential, urging that these realities be addressed together in international policy discussions.
He concluded that such high-level engagements are critical to deepening understanding and cooperation, noting that members of the visiting U.S. Congressional delegation expressed optimism about ongoing commitments and looked forward to concrete actions to strengthen Nigeria–U.S. relations.
