US embassy cable - 02ABUJA1404

UNCLAS ABUJA 001404 
 
SIPDIS 
 
 
SENSITIVE 
 
 
FROM AMBASSADOR JETER 
DEPARTMENT FOR AF, AF/W, AF/RAS, PM 
EUCOM FOR DCINC, POLAD 
NSC FOR AFRICA DIRECTOR 
 
 
E.O. 12958: N/A 
TAGS: PREL, MASS, EAID, PINS, MARR, MOPS, NI 
SUBJECT: NIGERIA: OPERATION AVID RECOVERY MADE A DIFFERENCE 
 
 
SENSITIVE BUT UNCLASSIFIED - PLEASE PROTECT ACCORDINGLY 
 
 
1.  (U) I want to express my profound gratitude to our 
colleagues at EUCOM, the NSC, USAID and State (AF and PM) for 
their exceptional support for U.S. relief operations in 
Nigeria since January 27th this year. 
 
 
2. (SBU) As all of you know, the catastrophic explosions that 
devastated the Ikeja Cantonment could have had profoundly 
negative consequences on the stability of Nigeria, in 
addition to the tragic loss of life and destruction of 
property that occurred. 
 
 
3. (U) Our response was immediate and genuine.  Resources 
provided through OFDA and the authority to transfer the 
remaining Operation Focus Relief (OFR) supplies to Nigeria 
went a long way in alleviating the initial human suffering 
and demonstrated the caring of the American people. 
 
 
4. (SBU) Still, more was needed to ensure that the fledgling 
democracy in Africa,s most populous nation would not be 
diminished by this tragic development.  When President 
Obasanjo first discussed with me his special appeal to 
President Bush for further assistance, the deep concern on 
his face told the whole story. 
 
 
5. (U) President Bush,s quick and positive response to 
President Obasanjo's request underlined the importance of 
U.S.-Nigeria relations and our gratitude for Nigeria's 
support following our own national horrors on September 11. 
However, the execution of President Bush,s decision fell to 
all of you.  Because of the hard work of those in Washington 
and at EUCOM, Operation Avid Recovery was implemented quickly 
and was a shining success. 
 
 
6. (U) I would also like to express my deep appreciation to 
our highly professional soldiers and airmen, who, working 
hand-in-hand with our colleagues at the Consulate General in 
Lagos, carried out the daunting tasks of medical support for 
the operation, disposal of the ordnance, and public education 
on its dangers.  These brave and professional men and women 
made us all very proud, and were outstanding representatives 
of our country. 
 
 
7. (U) The good work still continues.  A State Department 
contractor is currently gearing up for 90 days of further UXO 
clearance, which will make the tragedy of January 27th 
eventually fade into history. 
 
 
8. (SBU) Nigeria is entering a very difficult period for this 
young democracy.  Elections are approaching, and tensions may 
run high.  Regardless of the electoral outcome, America has 
sent a powerful message to this nation: when the chips were 
down, and our friend was in need, the United States offered a 
hand of friendship and support. I suspect that the people of 
this country will not forget what you did here. 
JETER