The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Stuart Symington, on Monday said the myriads of problems bedeviling Nigeria and Nigerians could be solved if they believe more in themselves and look inwards rather than seeking external intervention.
The envoy said this at the Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan, Ibadan at an event organised to mark the 2018 World Earth Day in commemoration of the Earth Day founded 48 years ago by a former Wisconsin US Senator, Gaylord Nelson.
The project was premised on the objective of introducing environmental issues into the US national agenda, thereby supporting the environment and protecting it against degradation of various forms.
In Symington’s estimation, what makes Nigeria thick was beyond its diversity or colour, but rather its people, which forms the basis of the country existence.
He nevertheless stressed the importance of preserving nature in various parts of the country, noting that its people, their diversity and resilience were the key elements that make Nigeria different from every other country.
Having journeyed through the 36 States of the country, the US envoy used the occasion to charge Nigerians to think of what they could do to make the country greater instead of looking for solution elsewhere.
In attendance were the UI Vice Chancellor, Prof. Idowu Olayinka, who was represented by his deputy in charge of Administration, Prof. Emilolorun Aiyelari; Principal officers of the University; members of the university management; top functionaries of the US Embassy in Nigeria; and members of the university community, including staff and students.
While discouraging practices such as patronage of bush meat sellers, as well as aiding animal smugglers, Symington said: “Nigeria means more than the people.
“What has brought you together as a nation is the people and the people being able to say they believe in the Nigerian dream.
“For me, the most important thing is the people but without the people, there can’t be Nigeria.
“I have three ideas to share with you: you, diversity and resilience.
“Nigerians must continue to think of what to do to make the country greater.
“When it comes to diversity, the treasures of Nigeria are explored.
“The diversity of Nigeria is extraordinary not only in the people but in the place and the natural endowments.
“I want you to think of the forest not as a forest but as a future.
“You must learn to use the existence of the forest to make money and life.
“Discourage those who sell bush meats by not buying and use social media to expose those who smuggle animals that are endangered species.
“There are trees in the forest that produce foods, cloths and all that are needed.
“It is all about the people, their resilience and their diversity.
“Don’t just save the earth, make it better and make all of us the beneficiaries better.”
Earlier in his remarks, Olayinka said the presence of the US envoy in the institution was an indication of the continued cordial relationship between the ivory tower and the US Consulate General in Nigeria, especially its Public Affairs Section.
He therefore expressed the institution’s appreciation to the Consulate for its continued support for the institution by creating collaboration opportunities for Nigerian scholars in the US, as well as those in the University.