By Harry Awurumibe, Editor Abuja Bureau
Determined to take her diplomatic relationship with Nigeria to a higher level, the United States of America (USA) has opened an American Corner in Ikeja equipped with learning tools for students, academics, journalists, entrepreneurs, and others to know more about the country and strengthen ties between two countries separated by the Atlantic ocean.
United States Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard said Washington is committed to providing free educational information and programs to Nigerians to help develop their skills through a network of American Spaces in Nigeria.
She officiated at the launch together with Venture Garden Group (VGG) co-founders – Bunmi Akinyemiju and Kunmi Demuren – and Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s Sustainable Development Goals Adviser Solape Hammond.
The ceremony was also attended by alumni of US government exchange programs, business, cultural, media, and political leaders.
Leonard applauded the the event as yet another example of the bourgeoning US-Nigeria bilateral relations, highlighting the broad range of programs at the American Corner.
“A significant aspect of U.S. foreign policy, and a cornerstone of my leadership of the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, is investing in people.”
“The new American Corner Ikeja will function as a center where young people develop their ideas, as well as their leadership and entrepreneurship skills through programs and workshops,” she said.
She praised the partnership with VGG, which hosts the American Corner, saying: “Lagos is a city of industry, entrepreneurship, and learning. It is great that the American Corner will help bring the people of Nigeria and the United States closer.”
