Holloway Receives U.S. President's Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement

On 14th of July 2024, marked a significant occasion as our Director General Olugbile Holloway welcomed a distinguished delegation from the U.S. President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement (U.S. PAC-ADE). This visit underscored the strengthening ties and ongoing dialogue between the United States and our country, particularly in fostering deeper connections with the African diaspora.

The delegation was comprised of notable figures, including Williams Stevens, the U.S. Consul General, and Mr. Kevin Young, the Director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. They were accompanied by other esteemed representatives from the U.S. PAC-ADE, each bringing their unique perspectives and expertise to the discussions.

The delegation’s itinerary began at the historic National Museum Onikan, a site of immense cultural and historical significance. Here, they were greeted warmly and given a comprehensive tour of the museum’s extensive collections. The exhibits at the National Museum Onikan provided the delegation with a profound understanding of our nation’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of the African diaspora. This visit also allowed for the exchange of ideas on preserving and promoting cultural heritage, as well as potential collaborations on future projects.

Following the visit to the National Museum, the delegation proceeded to the John K. Randle Center for Yoruba Culture and History. This modern cultural hub serves as a testament to the vibrancy and resilience of Yoruba culture. At the John K. Randle Center, the delegation was received by the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The Governor’s reception was a highlight of the visit, providing an opportunity for high-level discussions on cultural exchange, education, and economic partnerships.

Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed his enthusiasm for the delegation’s visit and emphasized the importance of such engagements in strengthening bilateral relations. He highlighted the shared history and cultural bonds between Nigeria and the United States, particularly through the African American community. The Governor also discussed ongoing initiatives in Lagos State aimed at fostering cultural preservation, education, and economic development, and explored avenues for collaboration with the U.S. PAC-ADE.

Williams Stevens, the U.S. Consul General, conveyed the U.S. government’s commitment to deepening ties with the African diaspora. He spoke about the significant role that cultural institutions play in this process and commended the efforts of Nigerian institutions in preserving and promoting African heritage. Mr. Kevin Young added to this by sharing insights from the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, illustrating how cultural diplomacy can bridge gaps and foster mutual understanding.

The discussions were fruitful, with both sides expressing a strong desire to continue working together on various fronts. Potential areas of collaboration include joint exhibitions, educational exchange programs, and initiatives to promote cultural tourism. These efforts aim not only to celebrate shared heritage but also to create economic opportunities and foster mutual respect and understanding.

The visit of the U.S. PAC-ADE delegation, led by Williams Stevens and Kevin Young, was a significant step in reinforcing the ties between our nations. Director General Olugbile Holloway and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s warm reception and productive discussions set a positive tone for future engagements. The exchange of ideas and the shared commitment to cultural preservation and education signal a promising path forward, one that will benefit both nations and honor the rich tapestry of the African diaspora.