U.S. Alumni Association Hosts Networking Event in Abuja
The United States Government Exchange Alumni Association of Nigeria (USGEAAN), Abuja Chapter, has hosted a major networking and engagement event in the nation’s capital, bringing together beneficiaries of various U.S. government-sponsored exchange programmes.
The event, which took place at the National Assembly Library Complex in Abuja, attracted about 300 alumni drawn from programmes such as the Fulbright Programme, Mandela Washington Fellowship, International Visitors Leadership Programme (IVLP), Humphrey Fellowship and other U.S. exchange initiatives. The gathering, described as a “meet and greet” session, was aimed at strengthening connections among alumni, fostering professional collaboration, and promoting mentorship and knowledge-sharing across different sectors. Participants shared experiences from their exchange programmes and explored ways to collectively apply the skills and values acquired abroad to Nigeria’s development. The gathering, described as a “meet and greet” session, was aimed at strengthening connections among alumni, fostering professional collaboration, and promoting mentorship and knowledge-sharing across different sectors. Participants shared experiences from their exchange programmes and explored ways to collectively apply the skills and values acquired abroad to Nigeria’s development. Also addressing the gathering, the U.S. Embassy’s Public Diplomacy Officer, Raisa Dukas, highlighted the importance of U.S. exchange alumni in deepening people-to-people ties between Nigeria and the United States. She described alumni as critical partners in promoting democratic values, good governance and innovation, stressing that the impact of exchange programmes extends far beyond the period of study or training in the United States. The event also featured discussions on coordinated alumni action, community service initiatives and opportunities for collaboration across public service, private sector and civil society. Participants were encouraged to translate their international exposure into practical solutions to local and national challenges.
