The U.S. National Security Council representatives Roger Morris and Charles Hermann held an exploratory, confidential discussion with Biafra’s Foreign Minister Godwin Onyegbula and Ambassador Ignatius Kogbara. The informal dialogue was aimed at exploring mediation and negotiation options without binding the U.S. to any specific action. Both sides stressed the need for secrecy and a unified communication channel, with Biafra open to discussing mediation, negotiation procedures, and preliminary meetings, all while focusing on ensuring the safety of its people and promoting economic integration.

Later in the conversation, practical issues were addressed, including the potential role of U.S. mediation, the creation of a credible negotiation framework, and challenges with relief operations; specifically, problematic daylight airlift arrangements. Onyegbula emphasized that any settlement must respect Biafra’s autonomy and security needs while paving the way for lasting economic and political cooperation. Morris concluded by affirming that the insights from this exchange would be relayed to higher authorities, reassuring them of the U.S. commitment to a resolution that saves lives and achieves a fair settlement for all parties.

The United States of America played a non-interventionist role in the Nigeria–Biafra Civil War. Its main policy was centered on avoiding direct interference, refusing to take sides, and promoting peaceful resolution through negotiations. The U.S. refused to supply arms to the Federal Government of Nigeria (FMG) or to recognize Biafra's secession. The purpose of this was to maintain good relations with all ethnic groups in Nigeria, and avoid setting a precedent for interfering in internal conflicts. While this approach strained U.S. relations with the Federal Military Government of Nigeria, it was seen as preventing greater risks and preserving broader U.S. interests in Africa.