A much-anticipated study from one of the experts, this book catalogs, chronicles, and discourses the enduring but oft-misaligned relationship between Nigeria and the United States from Balewa to Buhari and from Kennedy to Obama. Abegunrin does not disappoint in taking a fresh look at the subject, offering a regime-by-regime play of the relations between two nations that share deep historical connections, demographic roots, and interdependent economic interests. Current regimes and policy makers in both Nigeria and the United States are especially invited to pay close attention to the analyses and lessons offered by this book.

Akanmu G. Adebayo, Kennesaw State University

It is a pleasure to recommend this insightful book by Professor Abegunrin on Nigeria-United States relations from the time of Nigerian independence in 1960, and the heady years of Kennedy’s Peace Corps, through the recent Obama era with its focus on countering violent extremists. The author argues that personal contacts by Carter, Clinton, George W. Bush, and Obama with Nigerian leaders are keys to deeper diplomatic relations. Nigeria has become a top priority in Africa for U.S. policy makers. This book will provide important insight into how Nigeria-United States relations have evolved, with all their ups and downs.

John N. Paden, George Mason University

In Nigeria-United States Relations 1960-2016, Professor Abegunrin takes a fresh, comprehensive look at this deep, dynamic, and occasionally contentious relationship. The book carefully analyzes the arc of bilateral relations from the Eisenhower era through to the end of the Obama administration-from the primeministership of Tafawa Balewa through the Buhari presidency. A must read for both students of Nigerian politics as well as foreign policy practitioners. Professor Abegunrin’s book provides invaluable insights into the future of U.S.-Nigeria relations by expertly explaining their evolution thus far.

Matthew T. Page, author of Nigeria: What Everyone Needs to Know

This work is a succinct, lucid, and well-researched study of Nigeria-United States Relations spanning over five decades. It is a must-read book by students of Nigerian Foreign Relations since Nigeria’s flag independence.

Adeoye A. Akinsanya, Nasarawa State University