President of Belemaoil Group and All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Tein Jack-Rich, has called for deeper engagement between the United States and Africa, saying stronger political and economic partnerships are essential to unlocking Nigeria's vast development potential.
Jack-Rich made the call after receiving an award at the Celebrate America 250 event in Washington, D.C., where he spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
He described the recognition as an opportunity to project Nigeria's interests and strengthen Africa's voice in global policy and investment discussions.
"It is a great honour to celebrate U.S. 250 and have the opportunity to be in the right network to help Nigeria, help Africa and give both a stronger voice," he said.
According to him, sustained engagement with U.S. policymakers, investors and business leaders will encourage greater investment, expand trade opportunities and deepen economic cooperation between both regions.
Jack-Rich said Africa must be actively represented in international decision-making forums to ensure the continent's priorities are better understood.
"I have consistently advocated building trade platforms and opportunities where the dignity of African people becomes part of the strategic policy priorities of this administration," he said.
He noted that interactions with influential figures in Washington, including members of Congress and business executives, provided an important platform to present Africa's economic opportunities directly.
"We had congressmen, senior politicians, business leaders and the President's son listening carefully to Africa's perspective. That is the value of being in the right room," he added.
Jack-Rich said Nigeria and the wider African continent possess abundant natural resources and a rapidly growing youthful population, making the region an attractive destination for long-term investment despite current economic and security challenges.
He also highlighted Nigeria's role in promoting regional peace and stability, stressing that international collaboration remains critical in tackling insecurity.
"The President's involvement in helping Nigeria address insecurity has drawn global attention, created greater responsibility and reinforced the importance of sustained engagement," he said.
On global competition for influence in Africa, Jack-Rich said concerns were raised during discussions about the expanding presence of China and Russia on the continent.
"They talked about countries like China and Russia. I told them the issue is that Africa naturally partners with those who make themselves available," he said.
He explained that African countries would continue to work with partners prepared to invest in their economies but maintained that the United States offers more enduring value through its strong institutions, innovation and stable investment environment.
"A partnership with the U.S. is more sustainable because its footprints can outlive generations," he said.
Jack-Rich expressed optimism that stronger cooperation between Nigeria, Africa and the United States in sectors such as energy, agriculture, infrastructure, technology and trade would accelerate economic growth and create lasting prosperity.
"Africa has everything it needs to realise its full potential. What we require are trusted partnerships, expanded opportunities and greater access to global markets," he said.
The Celebrate America 250 event brought together leading American political and business figures, including Eric Trump, members of the U.S. Congress led by Representative Jim Jordan, investors and international dignitaries.