U.S. Embassy Welcomes New Members to the Family at Alumni Luncheon (September 29, 2011)

Abuja | September 29, 2011

A good fun and enjoyable luncheon was recently held at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja September 21.  It was an unusual gathering in that most of the invited guests did not know each other, worked in diverse public and private sector professions, and at first glance seemed to have little in common.  But appearances and first impressions can be deceptive: they soon discovered that either they had all traveled to the United States in 2011 or were about to travel at the invitation of the American Government.

In welcoming her guests, Acting Public Affairs Officer Deborah MacLean told them they were now part of the embassy’s extended Nigerian family -- by reason of their having participated in one of the embassy’s people-to-people exchange programs – and that they were also newly enrolled members of the “U.S. – Nigerian Alumni Association.” As such, “You are joining an elite network of Nigerian leaders, community changers, social activists, and civil society promoters who are committed to building a better tomorrow for the nation.  Please consider volunteering your time and talent to the work being done by these dedicated men and women, who are now your peers.”  

The luncheon passed too quickly, but many new friendships were made, and one and all promised to assist in future embassy programs, attending special events and helping out in matters connected to the U.S. – Nigerian Alumni Association.  The luncheon also provided the opportunity for participants of the IVLP program to swap stories and share some of their personal experiences , and provide some insight on expectations and culture shock to those preparing for the program in the coming months.