The United States secretary of state, Antony Blinken, says Nigerian musicians, athletes, entrepreneurs, among others are enriching American lives.

Mr Blinken, during his visit to Nigeria, after meeting President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, addressed the press in the company of Foreign Affairs Minister, Geoffery Onyeama where he made comments on Nigeria and America’s shared values and challenges and how the two countries are working together to address them. 

According to Mr Blinken, Nigeria is important to the U.S., especially through its diaspora’s impact on the American community. 

“Nigeria touches us every day in America through the amazing power of its diaspora. Musicians, writers, artists, entrepreneurs, athletes enrich our lives, make them more interesting, more rewarding, and we’re grateful for that as well,” Mr Blinken said. 

Nigerians are recognised as the most educated black community in the U.S., with members of the community being appointed as heads of government agencies or members of boards in the U.S. 

Recently more than four Nigerians have been appointed to serve in President Joe Biden’s cabinet in various capacities, giving credence to the world-class performance of Nigerians outside the country. 

Aside from education, Nigeria’s exports its afrobeat to the world in music with its artistes selling out concert arenas and becoming recipients of international awards such as the Grammys.