Cablegate: Nigeria: Text of Letter From President Obasanjo To

This record is a partial extract of the original cable. The full text of the original cable is not available.

UNCLAS ABUJA 000780

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PREL MASS NI
SUBJECT: NIGERIA: TEXT OF LETTER FROM PRESIDENT OBASANJO TO
PRESIDENT BUSH IN EOD ASSISTANCE

1. The following is a letter addressed to President Bush
from President Obasanjo dated March 6, 2002. The original
will follow by pouch; a copy has also been faxed to AF/W.

2.

I thank you for your letter of 21 February with the
expression of condolence as well as offering extensive
assistance with the recent tragedy of munitions explosion in
Lagos.

I can confirm with appreciation, that the U.S. Military
Technical team has indeed arrived in Nigeria and has since
commenced its assignment of assisting with the clean up if
the hazardous area around the munition dump and military
barracks.

Let me also thank you for authorizing humanitarian assistance
to be provided immediately to help displaced civilian
families. Furthermore, we look forward, with gratitude, to
receiving future assistance with the clean-up over long term,
using U.S. civilian specialists.

Mr. President, by your decision to so assist Nigeria in our
time of need, you have shown that the U.S. is indeed a
worthwhile ally to have, and you have demonstrated beyond
words your commitment to strengthening the excellent
relations between our two countries. On behalf of the people
of Nigeria I convey to you and the people of the United
States, our most profound appreciation and gratitude.

Jeter

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