…as MWFAAN marks 10th year Anniversary in Nigeria

By Favour Ulebor, Abuja

Vice President, Kashim Shettima has reiterated the crucial role of Nigerian youths in driving the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Agenda 2063, the African Union’s strategic framework for development.

He said this during his remarks at the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria’s (MWFAAN) 10th anniversary on Thursday in Abuja.

Shettima, represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, emphasized the need for youth investment, describing it as vital to achieving national and global development goals.

“No nation can prosper without investing in its youth. They are the drivers of our policies and the change-makers for a sustainable future,” he said, adding that over 60% of Africa’s population is under 25.

The Vice President praised youth organizations for advancing social justice, education, and healthcare, aligning with Agenda 2063’s vision to transform Africa into a global powerhouse through innovation in technology, agriculture, and creative industries.

MWFAAN President, Farida Yahya highlighted the association’s mission to empower young leaders for sustainable growth.

In his words, The Ambassador of USA to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills Jr, represented by his Deputy Chief of Missions, David Greene applauded the achievements of over 6,000 fellows across Africa, including 600 Nigerians.

Stressing the importance of continuous effort in driving societal transformation, he reaffirmed the U.S embassy’s commitment to supporting young African Leaders, encouraging fellows to continue their impactful work.

The conference also featured workshops on governance, press freedom, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and women’s development.

The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is the flagship program of the U.S government’s Young African Leaders Initiative, YALI, which has brought nearly 6500 young leaders from every country in Sub-Saharan Africa to the United States for academic and leadership training.