Global Business@Meridian Downtown: Nigeria

Meridian International Center held an installment of its Global Business@Meridian Downtown breakfast series on October 9, 2014. Hosted by Mr. David Picard, Region Manager for Africa and the Middle East for Caterpillar, and Mr. Ben Lambert, Government Affairs for Caterpillar, the program featured an off-the-record discussion with His Excellency Professor Adebowale I. Adefuye, Ambassador of Nigeria to the United States. Following welcome remarks by Mr. Picard - who has spent 28 years with Caterpillar and currently manages Caterpillar’s business lines in Africa and the Middle East, from Geneva - Corporate Council members and guests engaged in a group discussion with Ambassador Adefuye on U.S.-Nigeria bilateral relations, the current business and trade climate within Nigeria, and current opportunities and challenges for multi-national companies seeking to establish or expand their respective operations within country.

(from L to R) – Amb. Stuart Holliday, Amb. Adefuye, Bill Lane, Caterpillar, and David Picard, Region Manager for Africa and the Middle East, Caterpillar

Amb. Adefuye and David Picard discuss Caterpillar’s presence in Nigeria and ongoing infrastructure and power initiatives

Amb. Adefuye addresses guests on Nigeria’s current business landscape and best practices for diversified investment

The Caterpillar team, Amb. Adefuye, and Nigerian Embassy representatives exchange gifts following the program