The Federal Republic of Nigeria has conveyed to the United States of America its endorsement of the Proliferation Security Initiative.
The move by Abuja follows the sustained engagement between the two states.
The United States lauded Nigeria’s endorsement and participation in the Initiative and according to the U.S Department of State, Washington looks forward to working with the Government of Nigeria to advance the counterproliferation goals of the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) and its Statement of Interdiction Principles.
Nigeria becomes the 116th country in the world to endorse the Proliferation Security Initiative.
Countries that endorse the PSI share a commitment to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), their delivery systems, and related materials to state and non-state actors of concern.
Expanding PSI’s participation worldwide is critical to America’s safety as the Initiative improves individual and collective efforts to develop the capabilities needed to interdict WMD-related transfers that threaten the security of the United States.
The Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI)’s continued growth through consistent and determined engagement highlights America’s leadership on the world stage.
PSI’s core objective – to prevent the transfer of Weapons of Mass Destruction – reduces the likelihood these weapons will be used, ensuring continued American prosperity.
Launched in Krakow, Poland, in 2003, the PSI celebrated its 20th Anniversary in May 2023.
States become part of the PSI by publicly endorsing the PSI Statement of Interdiction Principles, making voluntary political commitments to impede and stop shipments of illicit WMD, delivery systems, and related materials flowing to and from states and non-state actors of proliferation concern.
PSI-endorsing States also adopt streamlined procedures for rapid information exchange and strengthen relevant national and international laws and frameworks.