56 Young Nigerians to Travel to the United States as part of the 10th Anniversary of the Mandela Washington Fellowship program

56 Young Nigerians to Travel to the United States as part of the 10th Anniversary of the Mandela Washington Fellowship Program

The U.S. Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria proudly unveils the selection of 56 distinguished young Nigerians for the 2024 Mandela Washington Fellowship program, celebrating its 10th anniversary. These fellows will travel to 28 cities across the United States from June 19 to August 1, culminating in a summit in Washington D.C., where they will engage with U.S. leaders in the business, government, and nonprofit sectors. Additionally, three fellows will participate in the Professional Development Experience at a U.S. organization for four weeks following the summit before returning to Nigeria.

Initiated in 2014, the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders stands as the cornerstone of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). This program is a testament to the enduring U.S. commitment to invest in Africa’s future. The fellowship offers a comprehensive program that includes academic coursework, leadership training, and networking opportunities.

Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria David J. Greene welcomed the 56 young Nigerians chosen for the 2024 Mandela Washington Fellowship, emphasizing the rigorous selection process and their ability to lead and inspire others. He highlighted the fellows’ diverse achievements and encouraged them to share their culture in the United States and use the fellowship to expand their influence in Nigeria. He expressed appreciation to the Public Diplomacy team and the State Department for their efforts in identifying future leaders and reminded the fellows of the importance of sharing their knowledge upon return to their communities.

Since the fellowship’s inception, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria has had the privilege of supporting 569 young Nigerian leaders through this exchange program. The U.S. Mission in Nigeria eagerly anticipates the Mandela Washington Fellowship’s continued success and its positive impact in shaping Africa’s future.