Obama Tours Africa, Boycotts Nigeria Again

SAN FRANCISCO, May 20, (THEWILL) – US President Barack Obama has once again snubbed Nigeria as he visits select African nations on his second trip to the black continent since his election as President of the United States of America.

President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama will visit Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania from June 26 – July 3, a statement from the White House obtained by THEWILL said Monday.

President Obama’s boycott of Nigeria on his African tour is a big slap on the government of President Goodluck Jonathan, which has come under severe criticism from the US over its violation of human rights as security forces combat the terrorist group Boko Haram.

The White House was however silent on why the US President snubbed Africa’s most populous state with one of the fastest growing economies in the world.

Part of the White House Statement reads: “President Obama and the First Lady look forward to traveling to Senegal, South Africa, and Tanzania from June 26 - July 3. The President will reinforce the importance that the United States places on our deep and growing ties with countries in sub-Saharan Africa, including through expanding economic growth, investment, and trade; strengthening democratic institutions; and investing in the next generation of African leaders.

“The President will meet with a wide array of leaders from government, business, and civil society, including youth, to discuss our strategic partnerships on bilateral and global issues. The trip will underscore the President’s commitment to broadening and deepening cooperation between the United States and the people of sub-Saharan Africa to advance regional and global peace and prosperity.”