Consul General of the United States Consulate, Claire Pierangelo has advised young Nigerians to explore ways to make positive impact in the society.
The consul general made the call in Lagos on Thursday while welcoming the 2019 Mandela Washington Fellows to a reunion conference.
No fewer than 56 Nigerians were among the 700 young leaders from sub-Saharan Africa who recently completed a six-week intensive academic and leadership program at some of the most prestigious US colleges and universities.
The Mandela Washington Fellowship began in 2014 and the U.S. government has sent nearly 4,000 young Africans leaders to the U.S. to empower them through academic course work, leadership training and networking opportunities.
Pierangelo admonished the fellows to compare notes on their fellowship experiences and explore how they could enhance their community service in Nigeria.
“I encourage you to continue to work to improve your communities and mentor young people to be politically active.
“You should also strive to create a Nigeria that will truly be the giant of Africa,” she said.
According to her, it is a very competitive fellowship program and only the most promising are selected from thousands of applicants.
“We need people who see a hope for Nigeria and have a clear idea of what they want to do to make the country better.
“These young leaders have been able to interact face to face with American institutions and can see how the political and economic systems work.
“Our only hope is that they’re coming back with something that benefits Nigeria as a whole,” the Consul General said.
Mandela Washington Fellows continue to have access to ongoing professional development opportunities, upon returning to their home country.
They also enjoy access to funding for projects that coincide with the U.S. Mission’s goals and objectives.
