U.S Exchange Alumni Move to Strengthen Nigeria’s Democracy

By Oluwakemi Kindness

The U.S. exchange alumni has convened in Abuja to chart new strategies for strengthening institutions, improving public service culture, and expanding community impact across the country.

According to a statement on Friday by the Public Relations Officer, USGEAAN, Abuja Chapter, Daniel C. Iwuchukwu, this comes amid growing concerns about Nigeria’s democratic resilience and declining civic participation.

Gathering at the National Assembly Library, about 300 alumni of U.S. Government–funded exchange programmes used the forum to examine how leadership, civic engagement, and cross-sector collaboration can be leveraged to address governance and development challenges.

U.S. Embassy Public Diplomacy Officer, Raisa Dukas stressed that alumni must play a frontline role in reinforcing democratic norms and enhancing people-to-people ties.

She urged them to deploy their skills to support institutional reforms and community engagement, announcing the Freedom 250 initiative as a platform to celebrate and promote the values of courage, innovation, and generosity.

USGEAAN President Dr. Nosayaba Tukura, represented by General Secretary Olalekan Adeeko, said the association is intensifying efforts to align alumni expertise with measurable impact at national and grassroots levels, particularly in strengthening institutions and boosting civic participation.

Abuja Chapter Coordinator Rep. Akin Rotimi presented the chapter’s 2026 work plan, prioritising administrative reform, inter-chapter collaboration, FCT-focused community projects, and national initiatives that promote democratic governance.

He said the chapter’s location at the centre of Nigeria’s political life positions it to influence public policy more directly.

The event also featured structured networking sessions aimed at strengthening mentorship, partnerships, and cross-sector collaboration among alumni.

USGEAAN represents Nigerian beneficiaries of 29 U.S. Government exchange programmes, including IVLP, Fulbright, Mandela Washington Fellowship, TechWomen, CYFI, SUSI, and others.