News Flash
U.S. Launches “Skill Up” Initiative for Akwa Ibom Youth Empowerment
U.S. Launches “Skill Up” Initiative for Akwa Ibom Youth Empowerment – The United States Government Exchange Alumni Association of Nigeria (USGEAN) officially launched its Akwa Ibom State Chapter on Monday, culminating in a closing ceremony and the swearing-in of its pioneer executive committee. The event, held at the Uyo Window on America marked the conclusion of a two-day capacity building workshop, “Skill Up Akwa Ibom,” designed to empower young entrepreneurs in the state.
The ceremony was graced by Ms. Julie McKay, the Public Affairs Officer of the U.S. Consulate in Lagos, who delivered an address reaffirming the U.S. Mission’s commitment to fostering leadership and economic development in Nigeria through its exchange programs.
Ms. McKay expressed high admiration for the new leadership. “I must appreciate the executive team for the amazing work they are doing to launch this chapter and immediately give back through this training,” she stated. She further offered a significant personal endorsement, noting, “In all my years of service, the Exchange Alumni from Nigeria are simply the best I have had the privilege to work with anywhere in the world.”
Ms. McKay charged the 30 participating young entrepreneurs to fully leverage the opportunity. She urged them to “seize this moment to network, learn crucial new skills, and embrace the spirit of giving back to your communities, your state, and your country.”
The newly inaugurated State Coordinator, Mr. Aniekeme Finbarr, in his acceptance speech, framed the initiative as a direct application of the association’s “Pay It Forward” philosophy. “We were privileged to gain invaluable knowledge, leadership skills, and global networks from the United States,” Finbarr stated. “‘Skill Up Akwa Ibom’ is our way of investing that privilege back into the brilliant youths of our state.”
He described the two-day masterclass as a project to equip young leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs with practical skills, an innovative mindset, and the resilience needed to thrive in today’s competitive world.
Mr. Finbarr emphasized that the inauguration was more than a ceremonial event, calling it a “declaration” of the alumni’s readiness to collaborate with government agencies, private institutions, and development partners to drive sustainable growth. The chapter’s key areas of focus will be Education, Entrepreneurship, and Civic Leadership.
The association expressed profound gratitude to the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos for its continuous support. “Your belief in the power of exchange programs fuels our mission,” Finbarr added.
The “Skill Up Akwa Ibom” workshop, a partnership between the new chapter and the U.S. Consulate, aimed to empower 30 selected young entrepreneurs. The training curriculum was designed to enhance participants’ skills in visionary and strategic leadership, foundational business principles, and effective digital marketing strategies tailored to contemporary market dynamics.
The newly sworn-in executive members include: Mr. Aniekeme Finbarr – State Coordinator, Mr. Akan James – State Secretary, Barr. Uyi Effiom – State Project Manager, Dr. Mbomabasi Udofia – Public Relations Officer, Mr. Inem Etuk – Financial Secretary
The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has reiterated its dedication to nurturing a new generation of strong business leaders, underscoring its commitment to supporting economic development and innovation across Nigeria, including Akwa Ibom State.
