The United States Secretary of State, Mr. John Kerry, will on Tuesday (today) meet President Muhammadu Buhari as part of his official visit to Nigeria. The meeting is scheduled to hold inside the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Buhari and his guest are expected to engage in a bilateral meeting during which the fight against Boko Haram and other issues will be discussed. Ahead of Kerry’s visit, however, security has been further beefed up in the already well-fortified seat of power.
Our correspondent reported that some US security operatives that are part of the advance team were seen at strategic places inside the Presidential Villa, on Monday. According to a schedule prepared by the Presidency, Buhari will receive Kerry at the forecourt of his (President’s) office by 3pm. The President will be joined by top government officials including ministers and presidential aides.
Photo journalists and video cameramen will be allowed to establish the arrival at 2.55pm. Reporters will not be allowed access to the venue. Immediately after the arrival ceremonies, Buhari and Kerry will proceed to the President’s office where they will hold a bilateral meeting. Only the official photographers and video cameramen of the two leaders will be allowed to establish the bilateral meeting.
Kerry will not grant press interview at the end of the meeting. Thereafter, the Secretary of State will meet some select governors from the North at the State House Press Waiting Room. Because of the small size of the room, only seven journalists that will include photo journalists and cameramen will be allowed to establish.
Kerry will also not grant interview at the end of the meeting. While the visit lasts, reporters will be restricted to the Briefing Room of the Council Chambers which serves as their operational base. On Monday, departmental heads were seen busy putting finishing touches to the preparation in order to ensure a hitch-free visit.
A statement issued by the Information Office of the Embassy of the US on Friday in Abuja, said Kerry would discuss the US cooperation with Nigeria over Boko Haram, economic and human rights issues during his visit. The statement said:
“Kerry will meet with President Muhammadu Buhari to discuss counter-terrorism efforts, the Nigerian economy, the fight against corruption and human rights issues. In Sokoto, he will deliver a speech on the importance of resilient communities and religious tolerance in countering violent extremism.”
“In Abuja, the secretary will meet with a group of adolescent girls working to change community perceptions that devalue the role of girls in society. He will also meet with northern governors and religious leaders.”