The US-Nigeria Educational and Cultural Leadership Programme Alumni Association (IVLP) has inaugurated a new executive committee for the 2026–2028 term in Abuja, reaffirming its commitment to leadership development, community impact, and strengthened bilateral ties.
Speaking at the ceremony, the outgoing president, Dr Buraka Sani, described the transition as a defining moment for the association’s growth and institutional consolidation.
She highlighted key achievements during her tenure, including the association’s formal recognition as the representative body of IVLP alumni in Northern Nigeria, strengthened collaboration with the United States Mission, and the transition to a more structured and compliant organisation.
According to her, these milestones have enhanced the association’s credibility and positioned it to access more opportunities for partnerships, grants, and community-focused programmes.
“Our journey has been one of purpose and resilience. Despite initial challenges, we have built a cohesive and impactful alumni network committed to leadership, service, and national development,” she said.
Dr Sani also noted that initiatives such as leadership forums, mentorship programmes, and the flagship Connect Initiative have fostered collaboration, knowledge exchange, and community engagement.
She urged members to support the new leadership in consolidating existing gains and expanding the association’s reach across the region.
In his remarks, the Cultural Attaché at the United States Embassy in Abuja, Mr Brian Neubert, commended the outgoing leadership for its service and reaffirmed the embassy’s commitment to continued collaboration.
He emphasised the importance of alumni networks in promoting democratic values, leadership, and people-to-people connections between Nigeria and the United States.
Neubert also noted that 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence, encouraging the association to align its programmes with themes such as democracy, rule of law, and community development.
The newly inaugurated president, Ambassador Jamilu Yusuf, pledged to strengthen coordination, expand impact, and reposition the association as a national force for development.
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He outlined a strategic vision focused on building functional structures across Northern Nigeria, promoting leadership and governance initiatives, and expanding mentorship opportunities for young people.
“We are not just building a network; we are building a system that delivers impact. This is a call to move from connection to coordination and from potential to performance,” he said.
Yusuf also stressed the need for stronger collaboration among members and stakeholders to maximise the association’s influence and contribute meaningfully to national development.
The inauguration ceremony brought together alumni, development partners, and representatives of the United States Embassy, underscoring the enduring partnership between both countries and the role of leadership exchange programmes in fostering mutual understanding and progress.
