America’s 250th Independence anniversary was celebrated by the United States Government Exchange Alumni Association of Nigeria, which praised U.S. contributions to education, leadership development and capacity building in Nigeria.
The United States Government Exchange Alumni Association of Nigeria (USGEAAN), Enugu Chapter, has commemorated America’s 250th Independence anniversary, applauding the United States for its longstanding contributions to Nigeria’s development through education, leadership training and capacity-building initiatives.
The celebration, themed “6th Mentorship Series: Freedom 250 Month: Leadership/Impact,” was held on Wednesday at the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus (UNEC).
The event featured sessions on Social Emotional Learning (SEL), Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills for the modern age and sustainable development.
Speaking at the programme, the Enugu State Coordinator of USGEAAN, Mr Ebere Amaraizu, described the association as a vibrant network of Nigerians who have benefited from various United States Government-sponsored exchange programmes.
According to him, the association comprises alumni of prestigious programmes including the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), Fulbright, the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) and the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE).
Amaraizu said the nationwide mentorship programme provides a platform for alumni to share knowledge and experiences acquired during their exchange programmes in the United States while demonstrating how those experiences are being applied to positively impact communities across Nigeria.
“This programme coincides with the Freedom 250 celebration marking America’s 250 years of independence. Throughout the month, we will continue to organise activities that promote leadership, community development and service,” he said.
He noted that the association has consistently invested in youth development, behavioural change, mental health advocacy and digital literacy through various mentorship initiatives.
Amaraizu disclosed that, in partnership with the U.S. Consulate, the association recently trained 34 teachers in Enugu State on digital AI skills, while more than 360 teachers benefited from Social Emotional Learning training organised in collaboration with the Office of the Wife of the Enugu State Governor.
Also speaking, an alumna and wife of the Chairman of Enugu South Local Government Area, Mrs Rita Edeh, described the celebration as an opportunity to appreciate the enduring relationship between Nigeria and the United States.
Edeh, whose birthday coincides with America’s Independence Day on July 4, said the United States has positively impacted countless lives through its educational, leadership and humanitarian initiatives.
She commended the country’s continued support for Nigeria and other nations through investments in education, leadership development and humanitarian assistance.
Chairman of the Science, Technical and Vocational Schools Management Board (STVSMB), Dr Amaka Ngene, said her educational experience in the United States inspired her lifelong commitment to public service and community development.
Ngene noted that the values of service, freedom and civic engagement she observed in America have significantly influenced her leadership style and professional career.
She revealed that the board is working with development partners to integrate Social Emotional Learning into teaching and learning across schools in Enugu State, saying the initiative would help produce responsible, value-driven and emotionally resilient students.
Ngene reaffirmed the board’s commitment to supporting programmes that strengthen education and youth development.
Similarly, the Chairman of Oji River Local Government Area and an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) alumnus, Mr Greg Anyaegbudike, said participation in the U.S. exchange programme transformed his understanding of governance and community development.
He identified volunteerism, public service and the preservation of national heritage as some of the most valuable lessons he learned during the programme.
According to him, Americans demonstrate strong pride in their history, public infrastructure and cultural heritage, values he urged Nigerians to embrace in promoting peaceful coexistence and sustainable national development.
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