Washington, D.C.—In a significant move to strengthen bilateral relations between the United States and Nigeria, President Joe Biden’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement (PAC-ADE) is set to make an official visit to Nigeria in July. This historic visit aims to enhance relations with people of Nigerian descent who live in America and foster deeper connections between the two nations.
The Birth of PAC-ADE
The PAC-ADE was born out of the African and Diaspora Young Leaders Forum, held on December 13, 2022, in Washington, D.C., as part of the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit. During this forum, Vice President Kamala Harris announced the creation of the PAC-ADE, and that same day, President Biden signed Executive Order 14089, directing the Secretary of State to establish the council. The PAC-ADE’s mission is multifaceted:
Strengthening Ties: The council aims to strengthen cultural, social, political, and economic ties between African communities, the global African Diaspora, and the United States.
Addressing Challenges: It seeks to address challenges and opportunities related to inclusion, belonging, and public awareness of the diversity, accomplishments, culture, and history of the African Diaspora.
Collaboration and Community Involvement: The PAC-ADE strives to increase public- and private-sector collaboration and community involvement in improving the socioeconomic well-being of African Diaspora communities.
Trade and Investment: It also focuses on increasing the participation of members of the African Diaspora in the U.S. concerning trade, investment, economic growth, and development programs relating to Africa.
Upcoming Visit to Nigeria
As part of its mandate, the PAC-ADE delegation will travel to Nigeria from July 15 to 17, 2024. This visit holds immense significance, as it provides an opportunity for dialogue, exchange, and collaboration.
The council members will engage with Nigerian leaders, scholars, artists, and community representatives. They will explore avenues for strengthening educational ties, promoting economic empowerment, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage shared between the two nations.
In Abuja, the Nigerian capital, the PAC-ADE will meet with key stakeholders, discussing strategies to enhance cooperation and mutual understanding. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the historic halls of universities, the council aims to build bridges that transcend borders and honor the enduring bonds between the African Diaspora and their roots.
Stay tuned for updates as the PAC-ADE embarks on this transformative journey, weaving connections that span continents and generations. Together, they honor the shared destiny of the African Diaspora—a homecoming across the Atlantic.
For more information about the Advisory Council, you can refer to President Biden’s Statement on Announcing the Inaugural Members of the Advisory Council and Secretary Blinken’s Statement on the Inaugural Members of the Advisory Council.
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