The Abuja Chapter of the United States Government Exchange Alumni Association of Nigeria (USGEAAN) held a significant alumni networking event on Thursday, attracting nearly 300 participants from US Government-funded exchange programs residing in the Federal Capital Territory.
This semi-formal Meet and Greet, hosted at the National Assembly Library, united alumni from various professional backgrounds for networking, knowledge- sharing, and renewed engagement, illustrating the long-standing effects of US exchange initiatives in Nigeria.
The event showcased how alumni actively foster principles like constitutional governance, democracy, civic duty, and public service within Nigeria's public, private, and civic sectors.
USGEAAN is a non-partisan assembly of Nigerian alumni from US Government- sponsored exchange programs that focuses on leadership growth, community service, and the advocacy of shared values between Nigeria and the United States.
The association includes alumni from various programs, including Fulbright, International Visitors Leadership Program, Mandela Washington Fellowship, Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship, TechWomen, TechGirls, and other youth, educational, cultural, and leadership exchanges.
Representatives from the United States Embassy, including Public Diplomacy Officer Raisa Dukas, were present, alongside members of USGEAAN’s national executive committee and distinguished alumni such as Gaza Gbefwi (SDP, Nasarawa State), a 2016 International Visitors Leadership Program alumnus, and Jesse Onuakalusi (LP, Lagos State), Chairman of the Nigeria–United States Parliamentary Friendship Group.
During her address, Ms. Dukas highlighted the vital role that exchange alumni play in fortifying democratic structures and nurturing person-to-person connections between Nigeria and the United States. She also introduced 'Freedom 250,' a year-long initiative commemorating 250 years of American independence, which aims to underscore the enduring values of courage, generosity, and innovation that America represents.
USGEAAN President Nosayaba Tukura also spoke during the event, urging for a unified alumni approach to translate the experiences gained from exchanges into substantial national contributions. She was represented by the association’s General Secretary, Olalekan Adeeko.
Ms. Tukura emphasized that the focus of their association transcends merely expanding their alumni network and aims at effectively mobilizing collective expertise for the betterment of the nation.
"Across Nigeria, USGEAAN alumni are utilizing skills acquired from US exchange programs to bolster institutions, enhance civic participation, and drive community-level progress. Our objective is to channel this energy, provide clear guidance, and ensure chapters function as effective platforms for leadership and service," she remarked.
In outlining the chapter’s 2026 work plan, Akin Rotimi (APC, Ekiti), Coordinator of the USGEAAN Abuja Chapter and an IVLP alumnus, conveyed that the plan emphasizes priorities such as strengthening administration, improved collaboration and networking, increased community impact within Abuja, and support for national initiatives of the association.
Mr. Rotimi, who serves as the spokesperson for the House of Representatives, noted the strategic position of the Abuja Chapter as an engagement hub for alumni in Nigeria's political and civic landscape.
"Being in Abuja, the nucleus of Nigeria's political and civic activities, bestows our chapter with a distinct duty and opportunity. Our vision is to cultivate a connected and vibrant alumni community that transforms experiences into actionable insights through mentoring, leadership, and innovation throughout society," he stated.
The gathering included structured networking opportunities and engagement sessions intended to enhance collaboration, mentorship, and strategic partnerships among alumni.
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