The Ijaw National Congress has congratulated U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and expressed hope for a partnership with Nigeria to solve global challenges, including environmental issues.

This was stated in a congratulatory letter by INC president Benjamin Okaba on Monday.

INC urged Mr Trump to use his presidency to promote global unity and understanding and fight environmental challenges, such as those facing oil-producing communities.

INC is the umbrella socio-cultural organisation and representative body of the Ijaw people worldwide.

INC said it “recognises” the importance of fostering positive relationships between nation-states.

“Under your leadership, we hope for increased dialogue and partnership on issues affecting our communities, recognising our distinct homogeneous race in the Niger Delta region of the Nigerian state.

“We also expect dialogue and partnership on environmental protection to help us in preserving our natural resources for the present and future generations.

“Other areas include economic development, that is empowering economic growth and stability, and cultural exchange, that is celebrating diversity and promoting cross-cultural understanding,” the letter stated.

(NAN)