The 2025 Mandela Washington Fellowship cohort experienced an electrifying Pre-Departure Orientation with the US Mission Nigeria, followed by a significant visit to the Honourable Minister of Youth Development in Abuja.
Led by MWFAAN President Julius Ilori and Special Duties Secretary Mahfuz Alabidun, the delegation introduced the incoming fellows and proposed national collaborations to the Ministry.
A key highlight was the unveiling of the MWFAAN Post-Fellowship Placement Program. This strategic initiative will connect fellows with impactful roles within federal and state youth ministries nationwide, leveraging the Forum of State Commissioners for Youth. The program aims to:
Connect fellows to high-impact placement opportunities.
Enable direct contributions to national development.
Increase the visibility and sustainability of youth initiatives.
The cohort also received a warm welcome from the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills.