British Prime Minister Tony Blair travels Wednesday to Nigeria, the first stop on a four-nation tour of west Africa.

In an interview with The Times of London, Mr. Blair said the international community has a duty to help relieve poverty on the continent. He also warned that, unless the West takes measures to improve the plight of African nations, it could face new terrorist threats.

Mr. Blair suggested that by neglecting failing states, the developed world runs the risk of repeating the situation of Afghanistan. But he said he believes the international community has the best chance in a generation to make a difference in Africa.

Prime Minister Blair expressed hope his trip will pave the way for agreement among the world's richest nations at a June G-8 economic summit in Canada to implement a New Partnership for African Development. That partnership would provide increased trade and aid for Africa.

Mr. Blair's trip will also take him to Ghana, Sierra Leone and Senegal.

Some information for this report provided by AP and Reuters.

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