Despite the ethno-religious conflicts facing Nigeria, the United States of America said the country had so much to celebrate but must embrace its differences to strengthen the democracy.
The US Ambassador to Nigeria, Terence McCulley, who spoke in Abuja at the 237th National Day celebration said Nigeria, like America, could "find strength in its diversity of language".
He said, "In Africa, Nigeria carries a loft this precious torch and with it the weighty responsibility to demonstrate that the Nigerian democratic experiment-like our American project-can find strength in its diversity of language, ethnicity and cultural traditions.
"And for Nigerian democracy to continue to prosper, conflict must be addressed, differences must be embraced, and unity must be promoted as a core value.
I am confident that Nigerians-despite the challenges-will find a way forward, as Nigerians have always done.
"In America and Nigeria, the common issues we face, the common hopes we have, are all human issues, all human hopes. We seek stability in our lives. We desire positive action from our leaders. We expect transparency in governance. We seek economic opportunity. We demand high quality education for our children. And we work to protect the environment so that our children and our children's children can enjoy the benefits of this bountiful planet.
"I am convinced that America and Nigeria share these common goals. And I am proud to say that we are friends whose relationship spans critical issues of global and regional import. And as friends, we have had some difficult conversations of late, about corruption, about human rights.
"But I wish emphasize to you that our strategic relationship remains as strong as ever, that the bonds that link our two nations remains solid; that Nigeria remains for America our indispensable ally in Africa."
McCulley who said this might be his final opportunity to celebrate America's birthday in Nigeria, said he was impressed by the "intelligence, drive, ingenuity and capability" of Nigerians.
He added, "I am encouraged by your powerful sense of nationhood. Amd I am uplifted by the pride you show in your religions, your culture, and your beliefs, drawing inspiration as you do from the uplifting words of your national anthem."
Answering questions from Journalists, McCulley said the US was concerned about the development in Egypt where the military removed a democratically elected President, Mohammed Morsi.
Giving account of his stewardship, McCulley said Nigeria and America had inaugurated the Bi-National Commission with five working groups, while the US had contributed about $500 million to help those living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.
On ransom placed on the Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, he said, "I really can't say anything about what I do not know. I hope the insurgence in the north will be contained with minimal loss of innocent lives. We hope for restoration of peace".
McCulley added that the US would continue to work with Nigeria to tackle corruption and promote enabling climate for foreign investors.
The Punch
No one needs to tell us that before we know it. It's just evident and obvious. Thanks USA for reminding us actually...