    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (1999, Book II)]
    [December 22, 1999]
    [Page 2330]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Lifting the Ban on Direct Flights Between the United States
    and Nigeria
    December 22, 1999

        Earlier today, Secretary of Transportation Rodney Slater announced that the United States is lifting our ban
    on direct flights to Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos, Nigeria.
        I congratulate President Obasanjo and
    his government for taking the steps necessary to remove this ban,
    including the overhauling of Nigeria's airport security system. These
    important reforms provided one more indication of the Nigerian
    administration's commitment to good governance. They offer new evidence
    that Nigeria is reversing the damage that years of corruption and
    mismanagement inflicted upon its international reputation.
        I am deeply gratified to see a government chosen by the Nigerian
    people earning the trust and respect of the world. I look forward to
    strengthening our partnership with Nigeria even further over the coming
    year.

    Note: The statement referred to President Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria.