Nigeria says U.S. air rule threatens bilateral ties

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ABUJA | Wed Jan 6, 2010 10:39am EST

ABUJA Jan 6 (Reuters) - Bilateral relations between Nigeria and the United States could be at risk if Washington keeps its requirement for tighter security for Nigerian travellers, a federal minister said on Wednesday.

The procedures, which took effect from Monday, come in the wake of a botched Christmas Day bombing attempt on a U.S. airliner blamed on Nigerian Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab.

"Nigeria expresses its disappointment and concern of the undeserved placement of Nigeria on the countries of interest list and views this action as having the potential of undermining longstanding and established U.S.-Nigeria bilateral ties," said Information Minister Dora Akunyili.

She did not elaborate on what could be at risk. (Reporting by Felix Onuah; Writing by Randy Fabi)

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Comments (73)
SirTennyson wrote:
I’ve got an idea. As the US closes its wallet and places same firmly back in its back pocket, why not tell Nigeria to go straight to Hell – without passing go or collecting $200.00. Wonder what they’d think about that?

Jan 06, 2010 10:59am EST  --  Report as abuse
Loubo wrote:
Yeah, so what? Cut ties with them. Certainly isnt going to hurt us.

Jan 06, 2010 11:03am EST  --  Report as abuse
AnnieK wrote:
Nigeria is a large exporter of oil. Problems will be worked out with the USA.

Jan 06, 2010 11:22am EST  --  Report as abuse
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