The U.S. President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement (PAC-ADE) has successfully completed its inaugural visit to the African continent, marking a significant milestone in U.S.-Africa relations.
The tour, which lasted from July 14 to 17, 2024, saw the delegation engage in high-level discussions and events in Lagos and Abuja, focusing on strengthening ties between the United States and Nigeria through diaspora-led initiatives.
The visit yielded concrete outcomes that will shape future collaborations. In Lagos, new partnerships were forged between U.S. and Nigerian universities, with an emphasis on women’s education, STEM, and creative industries. These agreements aim to facilitate knowledge exchange and create opportunities for students and faculty from both nations. The delegation also engaged with Nigeria’s thriving tech ecosystem, identifying avenues for increased cooperation in the digital economy.
In Abuja, meetings with Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar and other senior officials reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to building its relationship with Nigeria. Discussions centered on leveraging diaspora expertise to address health, climate change, and economic growth challenges. A visit to a USAID-supported healthcare centre highlighted ongoing collaborations aimed at improving health outcomes for Nigerians.
This trip underscores the pivotal role of the African diaspora in strengthening U.S.-Africa relations. By tapping into the unique perspectives and connections of diaspora communities, the United States aims to deepen its engagement with Nigeria and the broader African continent. The insights gained during this visit will inform PAC-ADE’s recommendations to President Biden, potentially shaping policies that enhance cultural, social, political, and economic ties between African communities and the African diaspora in the United States.
Established by President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken in September 2023, the PAC-ADE serves as an important advisory body, bridging the gap between the United States and Africa through the power of diaspora engagement. This inaugural trip to Nigeria demonstrates the Council’s commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships and driving positive change on both continents.
The PAC-ADE’s landmark visit signifies a renewed focus on the African diaspora’s contributions and the potential for enhanced collaboration between the United States and Africa. Through strategic partnerships and dialogue, the council aims to promote sustainable development, innovation and mutual growth, reflecting a shared commitment to addressing global challenges and fostering long-term prosperity.
