US embassy cable - 02ABUJA780

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