Aso Rock officials bar media from covering US secretary of state John Kerry's visit

PRESIDENCY officials have tightened up security around Aso Rock ahead of an impending visit by US secretary of state John Kerry that has involved barring journalists from covering the event.

 

Later this afternoon, Mr Kerry is due to arrive in Abuja and President Muhammadu Buhari is due to receive him at the presidential villa at 3pm. However, in a first such development of its kind, the presidency has told journalists that they would not be allowed to cover the visit.

 

Only photographers and videographers would be allowed to cover Mr Kerry’s arrival as well as the bilateral meeting between him and President Buhari. Mr Kerry would also meet with some governors from the northeast region to discuss the Boko Haram crisis and returning normalcy to the area.

A presidency spokesman said: “He will meet with President Buhari to discuss counterterrorism efforts, the Nigerian economy, the fight against corruption and human rights issues. In Sokoto, he will deliver a speech on the importance of resilient communities and religious tolerance in countering violent extremism.

 

"In Abuja, the secretary will meet with a group of adolescent girls working to change community perceptions that devalue the role of girls in the society. He will also meet with northern governors and religious leaders.”