PRESS RELEASE • AUGUST 3, 2023

Readout of Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer’s Travel to Gabon and Nigeria

The White House
Statements and Releases
August 2, 2023

On August 2, Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer traveled to Gabon and Nigeria. The trip underscored the Biden Administration’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relationships with African nations to solve global challenges and advance shared interests.

In Gabon, Mr. Finer met with President Ali Bongo Ondimba, Foreign Minister Hermann Immongault, and Minister of Environment Lee White.  Mr. Finer underscored the importance of Gabon as a partner to the United States, including our cooperation on security in the Gulf of Guinea and the Central Africa region. They also discussed shared commitments, such as efforts to combat climate change.

In Nigeria, Mr. Finer met with President Tinubu and other senior Nigerian officials to discuss regional security issues, including recent developments in Niger, and constructively engage on next steps to preserve Niger’s hard-earned democracy.