The United States government has urged Nigeria to address the impediments to trade and investment in the country effectively.

The U.S. ambassador to Nigeria, Terence McCulley, made the call at an event to mark the 236th independence of the US in Abuja.

McCulley said with Nigeria as America's biggest trading partner in sub-Sahara Africa, exporting more goods to the US than any other country U.S was desirous of increasing its exports to Nigeria.

The envoy also noted that trade between Nigeria and his country rose by 467 per cent between 2001 and 2011, and that plans were underway to double US’ overall exports to Nigeria by 2015, saying that the Federal Government needed to improve the country's trade climate.

According to him, President Obama said the ``development depends on good governance," and Nigeria would become more attractive to both domestic and foreign investors by improving the rule of law.

“By respecting the sanctity of contracts and ensuring transparency and accountability, Nigerian and international firms can compete on a level playing field, and all of Nigeria will benefit.

“Corruption is another impediment to investment, but I am confidentb that the leadership of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other authorities will be effective in identifying and prosecuting cases of fraud, thus, increasing business opportunities and investor confidence in Nigeria.

“Another important barrier to economic growth today is violence and insecurity. The Nigerian people deserve effective and accountable security forces to counter violent extremism, as well as a coordinated campaign to deliver economic development,” McCulley stated.

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