NIGERIA: OPERATION AVID RECOVERY MADE A DIFFERENCE

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