The United States stands with Switzerland in mourning those who lost their lives in the tragedy in Crans-Montana.  In solidarity, Ambassador Callista L. Gingrich has ordered the U.S. Embassy flag to be lowered to half-staff.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu: “Today, I was at the site of the Great Nigeria Insurance building, which was destroyed by fire on December 24. My deepest sympathies remain with the families who lost loved ones and with everyone whose homes and businesses were affected. I know that no words can fully ease the pain they are going through. “As of today, we have confirmed eight deaths. Five victims have been identified, while three remain unidentified. Thirteen people have been rescued so far. “We have established an information center at the site. Anyone requiring assistance or information can speak with officers from...

“As I travel the world and meet leaders who have transformed their nations, one lesson is clear: lasting economic and social progress begins with national consensus. Transformative leaders—those who successfully unite their people around a shared vision—share a defining quality: honesty. “Government must be transparent and truthful because citizens deserve nothing less from those who lead them. True leaders do not exploit their people to enrich themselves and a few cronies; they build trust, unity, and shared purpose – the foundation of sustainable progress. “It is against this standard of honest leadership that Nigeria’s current approach to taxation must be...