US Commends Exchange Programmes for Boosting Democracy, Nigeria’s Civic Engagement
The United States has praised its government-funded exchange programmes for their contribution to democratic development and civic participation in Nigeria.
The commendation was given by the Public Diplomacy Officer of the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, Raisa Dukas, during a major networking event organised by the Abuja Chapter of the United States Government Exchange Alumni Association of Nigeria (USGEAAN).
The semi-formal networking event, held in Abuja, attracted about 300 alumni of various U.S. exchange programmes currently residing in the Federal Capital Territory.
The gathering served as a platform for professional networking, experience sharing and highlighting the long-term impact of U.S.-sponsored exchanges across Nigeria’s public, private and civic spaces.
Addressing participants, Dukas underscored the important role exchange alumni continue to play in strengthening democratic institutions and fostering closer people-to-people relations between Nigeria and the United States.
She also announced the launch of Freedom 250, a year-long initiative to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, which will celebrate shared values such as courage, generosity and innovation.
President of USGEAAN, Dr Nosayaba Tukura, called on alumni to channel the skills and knowledge gained from their exchange experiences into tangible contributions to national development.
Speaking through the association’s General Secretary, Olalekan Adeeko, Tukura said the true strength of USGEAAN lies in effectively mobilising the collective expertise of its members for institutional growth and community development.
She noted that alumni across the country are already applying lessons from U.S. exchange programmes to promote civic engagement, strengthen institutions and drive grassroots impact, adding that the association aims to provide clearer coordination and ensure its chapters serve as effective platforms for leadership and service.
The Abuja Chapter Coordinator, Rep. Akin Rotimi, an alumnus of the International Visitors Leadership Programme (IVLP), presented the chapter’s 2026 work plan at the event.
He outlined key focus areas, including organisational strengthening, increased collaboration among members, expansion of community-based initiatives and support for national-level programmes.
Rotimi highlighted the strategic importance of the Abuja Chapter, noting that its location at the centre of Nigeria’s political and civic activities places a unique responsibility on members to lead by example.
According to him, the chapter seeks to build a vibrant and connected alumni network that translates exchange experiences into mentorship, leadership and innovation across sectors.
He urged alumni to actively participate in building a community of change-makers committed to democratic governance, civic responsibility and public service nationwide.
The event featured structured networking and engagement sessions aimed at enhancing collaboration, mentorship and strategic partnerships among alumni.
USGEAAN is a non-partisan association of Nigerian beneficiaries of U.S. Government-funded exchange programmes, dedicated to leadership development, community service and the promotion of shared values between Nigeria and the United States.
