Abuja Hosts 300 U.S. Government Exchange Alumni

About 300 alumni of the United States government-sponsored exchange programmes gathered in Abuja for a networking event aimed at strengthening professional collaboration and civic engagement.

The event, organised by the Abuja Chapter of the United States Government Exchange Alumni Association of Nigeria, USGEAAN, was held at the National Assembly Library and brought together alumni from diverse professional backgrounds across the Federal Capital Territory.

Speaking at the event, a representative of the U.S. Embassy, Raisa Dukas,
said exchange alumni play a key role in strengthening democratic institutions and deepening ties between Nigeria and the United States.

She also announced the launch of “Freedom 250,” a year-long initiative marking the 250th anniversary of the United States and highlighting American values such as courage, generosity and innovation.

The President of USGEAAN, Dr. Nosayaba Tukura, said coordinated action among alumni was necessary to translate exchange experiences into measurable national impact.

Represented by the association’s General Secretary, Olalekan Adeeko, Dr Tukura said the network’s strength lies in how effectively members apply their expertise to national development.

“Our strength as an association lies not in the size of our network, but in how we harness its collective expertise for national development,” she said.

Coordinator of the Abuja chapter and an alumnus of the International Visitors Leadership Programme (IVLP), Mr Akin Rotimi, presented the chapter’s 2026 work plan highlighting strategic priorities including administrative strengthening, enhanced collaboration and networking, scaling community impact within Abuja, and supporting the implementation of national-level initiatives of the Association.

“Being in Abuja, at the heart of Nigeria’s political and civic life, gives our Chapter a unique responsibility and opportunity. Our goal is to build a connected, dynamic community of alumni who turn their experience into meaningful action, mentoring, leading, and innovating across society.

“We call on all alumni to join us in cultivating this network of change-makers, advancing democratic governance, civic responsibility, and public service throughout the country,” Rep. Rotimi said.

The gathering was attended by distinguished guests from within the network, including member of the house of representatives from Nasarawa State, Gaza Jonathan Gbefwi 2016 IVLP Alumnus, and the Chairman house Committee on Nigeria-US Parliamentary friendship Group, Jesse Okey-Joe Onuakalusi.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji