57 Exceptional Nigerians Chosen for the Prestigious 2023 Mandela Washington Fellowship Program: U.S. Mission Celebrates Emerging Leaders

Simon Ateba( Chief White House Correspondent )

Simon Ateba is Chief White House Correspondent for Today News Africa covering President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. government, UN, IMF, World Bank and other financial and international institutions in Washington and New York.

The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has unveiled the names of the 57 outstanding Nigerians selected for the 2023 cohort of the Mandela Washington Fellowship program. This flagship initiative of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) showcases the U.S. government’s commitment to investing in Africa’s future and empowering young leaders across the continent.

Launched in 2014, the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is an esteemed program that brings together a diverse group of young individuals to partake in academic coursework, leadership training, and networking opportunities. The ultimate goal is to foster stronger connections between Africa and the United States and to create a brighter future for the African continent.

From June 21 to August 4, the Fellows will embark on a transformative journey across 28 American cities, participating in Leadership Institutes hosted by various American colleges and universities. In the final week of the program, the Nigerian Fellows will join their counterparts from other sub-Saharan countries in Washington D.C. for a Leadership Summit. The summit will include meetings with top U.S. government officials and influential private sector leaders, further expanding their network and potential opportunities.

During the pre-fellowship orientation reception, Charge d’Affaires David Greene emphasized the U.S. Mission’s dedication to supporting Nigerian youth and offering them opportunities to reach their full potential. Greene also highlighted the importance of the Mandela Washington Fellows in deepening the relationship between the United States and Nigeria.

Over the years, the Mandela Washington Fellowship has left a lasting impact on many young leaders from Nigeria. Since 2014, more than 500 Nigerian leaders have participated in the program, amplifying their voices, enhancing their skills, and creating a brighter future for their communities.

The U.S. Mission Nigeria said in a statement that it was honored to announce the latest cohort of Mandela Washington Fellows for 2023, a testament to the resilience, talent, and potential of the Nigerian youth.