Nine Nigerien professionals have been selected to participate in the United States’ flagship exchange initiative, the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), according to a statement released by the US Embassy in Niamey on April 30, 2025.
Established in 1940, the IVLP is the US State Department’s premier professional exchange programme.
It aims to deepen mutual understanding between the United States and other countries by connecting emerging global leaders with American counterparts across a wide range of fields.
Participants gain first-hand exposure to US values, institutions, and professional practices through intensive, short-term visits.
“Niger has a proud tradition of participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program, with 623 alumni contributing to leadership, security and development efforts across the country,” the US Embassy stated.
“These nine new participants will continue this legacy, helping to advance the common goals of stability, prosperity and good governance.”
This year’s participants span a wide array of sectors, including public health, entrepreneurship, law, journalism, and human rights.
They are:
– Halimatou Salissou – Supporting women for political and social leadership
– Clément Albert Serge Sébastien Rachid – Economic development through the arts
– Nafissa Hamidou Abdoulaye – Entrepreneurship as a driver of prosperity and small business development
– Mamane Sani Ibro Harouna – Global public health challenges
– Soumana Younoussi – Rule of law and the United States judicial system
– Ousmane Aboubacar – Fight against violent extremism: community strategies
– Abdou Mahaman Bachir – Human and civil rights of marginalized communities
– Nafissa Garba Amadou – Fight against coercive violence
– Abari Amitti Aboubacar – Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists: Media responsibility in the age of disinformation
“These exchanges strengthen the partnership between the United States and Niger,” the Embassy noted.
“The United States is committed to human capital development through skills acquisition and knowledge transfer throughout the Sahel region.”
The US Embassy extended its congratulations to the selected participants, expressing confidence in their potential to help build “a more stable, prosperous, and secure Niger.”
Source: ANP