U. S Ambassador Urges Nigerian Exchange Alumni to ‘Change Society’

Mr. Stuart Symington, the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria has inaugurated the Lagos Chapter of the U.S. Government Exchange Alumni Association, which seeks to bring together and mobilize projects by U.S. exchange program alumni residing in Lagos State.

Speaking at the event held on Monday, in Lagos, Symington, said that various exchange programs mapped out by the U.S. Government signify that “nothing good happens for anybody alone”.

The Ambassador encouraged the alumni who had participated in one of 20 United States exchange programs, to lead either from the front, middle or back, as “Grassroots leadership is critical in changing a society for better”.

U.S. exchange program alumni include participants of the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program, the International Visitor Leadership Program, several Fulbright Programs, the Mandela Washington Fellowship, TechWomen, and many other U.S. government-sponsored exchanges.

Ambassador Symington emphasized that the United States and Mission Nigeria would continue to partner with Nigerians committed to making institutions work better for the people they serve.  He challenged the alumni to use their skills and leadership positions to advocate for good governance, peace, and economic growth in their communities.

The ceremony featured the unveiling of the Alumni, underscoring the need to build strong connections across alumni networks and share best practices.

Earlier, Mr. Jude Ememe, interim chairman, Steering Committee, said that the Association will assist in harnessing talents of the programs’ participants, for effective collaborations to positively impact the society.

Already, the Alumni Association rolled out two programs: a campaign to encourage more students’ interest in Sciences, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM); and to equip young people to imbibe positive values. 

Highlights of the workshop included information on grant writing and funding opportunities as announced by U.S Consul General Lagos, Mr. John Bray.

Mr. Bray said the grant of $10,000 is offered through Mission Nigeria and the International Exchange to work to expand peace and prosperity in their respective communities.