Only Nigerians can solve their problems themselves – U.S

The United States of America, (U.S.A.), at an interactive forum with interfaith groups and local communities on Anti-corruption messaging in Calabar, Cross River State, emphasised that “only Nigerians can solve their problem themselves, saying that the U.S. and any other external country can only render assistance. The U.S. Political Officer in charge of Consulate Office, Lagos, Janine Lewis, at the interactive forum cautioned that the rising incidence of corruption in Nigeria could constitute a serious obstacle or threat to the transparency of the 2023 general elections. He, however, assured that the U.S. will be in the field to monitor the processes and assist Nigeria during the democratic transit exercise.

Lewis decried that corruption in Nigeria has constituted a huge challenge to the country’s growth and development, noting that corruption “is eating deep into the political system. He advocated that the deepening corruption must be dealt with in the preparations for the 2023 general elections in Nigeria.

The interactive forum was funded by MacArthur Foundation and the United States Government. Other participants include traditional rulers, religious leaders, media practitioners, civil society, and security operatives.

Coordinators of the interfaith interaction, Bishop Emmah Isong and Imam Shefiu Majemu, were of the view that fighting corruption should not be left for the government alone, adding that this was why the forum was put in place.