By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – Dr Baraka Sani, President of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), has urged alumni to utilise their skills to tackle Nigeria’s challenges.

At the Valentine Reunion/Dialogue of the US-Nigeria Educational and Cultural Leadership Programme held in Abuja over the weekend, Sani emphasised the importance of collaboration among leaders from various fields.

She highlighted that sustainable change necessitates diverse perspectives, noting that the IVLP, a programme of the US Department of State, strengthens relationships and understanding between the US and other nations, providing foreign leaders with insights into American culture and politics.

Sani also introduced the IVLP Alumni Connect initiative, aimed at fostering ongoing discussions on national development and collaboration among alumni. The event highlighted the critical role of educated professionals in driving Nigeria’s progress.

She stated, “Sustainable change requires individuals from different backgrounds and perspectives to come together and share their knowledge, skills, and experiences.

“As leaders in our respective fields, we must recognise that, in the face of the current social and numerous challenges confronting the world—and our country in particular—it is vital, as IVLP Ambassadors, that we leverage our experiences, knowledge, and strategies, including collaboration with relevant stakeholders, to contribute to resolving these challenges.

“The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is the US Department of State’s premier professional exchange programme, designed to strengthen relationships and mutual understanding between the United States and other countries.

“IVLP Alumni Connect is positioned to provide members with the opportunity to continue discussions on national development and create avenues for further collaborations that can advance our nation.

“I believe today’s event, the IVLP Alumni Connect, serves as a valuable opportunity to build long-term influence through networking.”

Also Speaking at the occasion, the Country Director of the Global Peace Foundation, sponsors of the Dialogue, Reverend Joseph Hayab emphasised the need for harmony and peaceful coexistence for our country to make the needed progress. He said the Foundation will continue to be in the forefront of advocating for Unity, equity and justice for all.