August/September 2017 A publication of the U.S. Mission in Nigeria CROSSROADS

Out of Many, One

CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 1 EVENTS 2017 INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATIONS June 28 & 29, 2017

Ambassador W. Stuart Symington, Ambassador Vivian Okeke of the Ministry of Foreign Shuga Band brings the MOTOWN sound to Affairs and DCM David J. Young stand at attention for the Star Spangled Banner in Abuja

Consul General John Bray welcomes the Alaafi n of Oyo, His Imperial Management Offi cer Will Steuer with artist and philanthropist Majesty Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, to the Lagos celebration Nike Okundaye-Davies and her European interns in Lagos

The U.S. Marine Security Guard Attachment 2017 Arts Envoy Andy Allo and of the U.S. Embassy, Abuja present the colors her band light up the Abuja stage AMBASSADOR’S NOTES

there is nothing more important in good governance and accountability. a diverse country than appreciating our diff erences and embracing all A people’s culture and heritage those in our nation with heartfelt should never be allowed to fade aff ection and a shared commitment away. All of us at our U.S. Mission in to our common future, regardless Nigeria are proud that investments of race, creed, heritage, or religion. from our Ambassador’s Fund for Rich cultural diversity is something Cultural Preservation are being used America shares with Nigeria and to help keep the symbols of Nigeria’s in this issue, we emphasize the rich history and culture alive. For necessity of working together for the example, the National Museum in Jos, good of all and of remaining united in Plateau State, is currently undergoing the face of violence or calls intended a facelift on several fronts thanks to pull us apart. to our eff orts. I can’t wait to see the outcome. More importantly, I cannot Also in this issue, we reminisce wait till many of you have the chance on World Press Freedom Day and to see the great cultural works in the events we held in Lagos and that special place. As you read about W. Stuart Symington Abuja. The events provided fora for what is there, I hope you will be as U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria healthy discussions of the important impressed as I am. relationship between Nigerians and their media representatives. You As always, please let us know what ear CROSSROADS Readers, will also note that the U.S. Embassy you think of this issue on any of our has partnered with leading local various online platforms. I appreciate Looking back over our media organizations to enhance your feedback. own history, we are their capacity to serve the needs of Dconstantly reminded that Nigerians and contribute to fostering W. Stuart Symington

Vol. 23 No. 1 is publishedCROSSROADS quarterly by the Public Affairs Section, U.S. Embassy, Nigeria In This Issue... EDITORIAL TEAM Aruna Amirthanayagam (Counselor for Public Affairs) Cover Story Nuggets Darcy Zotter (Public Affairs Officer, Lagos) Pg 4 Russell Brooks Pg 13 (Press Attaché) Olaoluwa Aworinde (Editor, Crossroads & photographer) Press Cultural Sani Mohammed Freedom Preservation (Editor, Magama)

Address all correspondence to: Pg 6 Pg 14 The Editor, Public Affairs Section U.S. Embassy Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive, Central Summer Farmer/ Business Area, Abuja, Nigeria Interns Herder Tel: (09) 461-4000. Fax: 09-461-4305 Conflict Pg 8 Pg 16 LAGOS OFFICE: U.S. Consulate General, Public Affairs 2, Walter Carington Crescent, Lagos In Our Short Student Tel.: +234-703-150-4867/2444 Woods Story Visas E-mail: [email protected] Pg 9 Pg 18 Website: ng.usembassy.gov

CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 3 COVER STORY

Outby Sani Mohammed ofMany,Many, bout sixteen years ago, The triumph of the American invariable reply, from more than former U.S. Secretary of experience owes its success to a thousand Nigerians, is “I like AState Colin Powell said at many factors. Among them is, of the Nigerian people.” I like our an Iftaar event in Washington, course, the vision of ’s diversity, our resilience, our “America is a nation of nations, founding fathers who established energy, our warmth, our spirit, our made up of people from every a government of, by and for food…” land, of every race and practicing the people. They also provided every faith. Our diversity is not a a constitution that guaranteed He reminded the guests that, source of weakness; it is a source certain freedoms including freedom “throughout the history of the of strength, it is a source of our of speech, freedom of assembly United States, the diversity we success.” and freedom of religion. prize, and share with Nigerians, has been a source of tension and, The people of the United States America’s founders established at times, even a challenge to our represent an array of ethnic, a society that would embrace union. George Washington warned cultural and religious backgrounds, diversity and celebrate the that those who sought to weaken all of whom help to make up the diff erences that various cultures and defeat us would fi rst attack our complex picture of what it means would bring to the United States. unity of government, and Abraham to be an American. The United Most importantly, Americans share Lincoln made preserving the union States is often characterized as core values, represented within his life’s work.” a nation of immigrants. Its rich the Constitution, that the American heritage - often referred to as a mosaic, no matter their religion or The Ambassador cited some of the “melting pot” - is in part due to ethnicity, all share. This is the glue diffi culties the United States has successive waves of immigrants that has led to the success of the faced in order to preserve its union from around the world. The American experiment. and credited its success to the United States has welcomed more resilience of leaders and citizens immigrants than any other country These values which have committed to ensuring justice for -- more than 50 million in all -- and contributed so much to the fabric all. today welcomes almost 700,000 and strength within America, also persons a year. Americans have inform America’s eff orts to fi nd Most of all, Ambassador Symington of necessity placed great value on common ground with peoples and believes that Nigeria is capable diversity. America’s ethnic groups cultures in other lands. of facing and overcoming the celebrate their heritage, and same challenges. “Today, Nigeria the children of immigrants often The 241st U.S. Independence is fortunate to have such leaders grow up retaining the languages, anniversary celebration in Abuja and citizens. Together they are traditions and cultures of their was an occasion to underscore dedicated to keeping Nigeria parents and grandparents. how much Americans share with united and just and to ensuring Nigerians. every Nigerian is heard and taken This form of cultural enrichment into account and treated fairly. thrives in America. However, Ambassador W. Stuart Symington This is crucial; every one of you is doubts have been expressed since reminded the assembled guests crucial. Together those Nigerians the founding of the United States that, like the United States, will overpower any call to divide concerning whether a nation Nigeria is a wonderful nation this Nation.” composed of such varied people whose diff erences and diversity can succeed. Americans believe are sources of strength and a Thank you Mr. Ambassador. that their experience answers this reason for pride. He recalled Refl ecting the diversity of question with a resounding yes. that, “Whenever I meet a Nigerian, Nigerians, let me say both Amen I ask, “What do you like the and Inshallah most about your country?” The

4 CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 Out ofMany, One

isiting Arts Envoy Andy Allo joined Nigerian artists VJessica Bongos and The Isomers on stage at the Abuja Sheraton’s Ladi Kwali Conference Center for a night of incredible music on June 30.

The Out of Many, One concert highlighted the diversity that is a hallmark of both Nigeria and the United States. A capacity crowd of more than 500 guests enjoyed the unique sound of Andy Allo and her band. The artists Andy Allo, Suzanne Mikula, Jacob Moses, Justin Smolian and Mathias Kuenzli hail from diff erent parts of the United States from Massachusetts to California. Mathias was actually born in Switzerland, and Andy and Suzanne were also born abroad in Cameroon. The group truly represented the theme of the concert as they made the audience sing, laugh, and dance.

In addition, jazz songstress Jessica Bongos added her soulful tunes while The Isomers shook the crowd with their brand of afro- alternative rock. Out of Many, One, a collaboration between the U.S. Embassy and Play Network Nigeria, produced a night to be remembered.

CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 5 PRESS RELATIONS Building Institutions and Support for Press Freedom by Susan Dauda & Temitayo Famutimi

Consul General F. John Bray gives the keynote L-R: Sec Gen of NUJ Shuaibu Leman, DG FRCN Mansur Liman, address during the event at the Lagos Consulate Editor-in-chief Daily Trust Manir Dan Ali during the fi rst Abuja event

he 3rd Day of May, designated Activities began with the screening They emphasized truth, accuracy and by the United Nations of the iconic American fi lm All the impartiality as basic principles that Scientifi c and Cultural President’s Men at Kaduna State underpin the practice of journalism. Organization (UNESCO) as University on May 1. This was World Press Freedom Day, followed on the 3rd of May by a panel Also on the 3rd of May, a web chat on helps highlight the importance discussion on journalistic ethics at the threats faced by the press was hosted of the fundamental principles Embassy. The discourse was led by four by MSNBC’s Richard Lui. During of press freedom. In its experienced journalists including the the web chat, Courtney Radsch of annual tradition, the Public Director General of the Federal Radio the Committee to Protect Journalists Affairs Section of the United States Corporation of Nigeria Mansur Liman, discussed the problem of “fake news” TMission, represented in Abuja and Editor in chief of the Daily Trust Manir and the various dangers faced by Lagos, organized a series of programs Dan Ali, the Head of the BBC Hausa journalists worldwide. Other events in commemoration of World Press Service Naziru Mikailu, as well as held in Abuja included a DVC with Freedom Day. Shuaibu Leman, the Secretary General former journalist Eduardo Cue who of the Nigerian Union of Journalists. spoke from Paris on “Media in a

Winners of the inter-collegiate debate competition - LASU David Ajikobi of Africa Check facilitates a seminar on fact-checking journalism students - with Darcy Zotter, Public Affairs Offi cer Lagos

6 CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 New Media Age” and a fact checking seminar conducted by David Ajikobi of Africa Check, the only organization in Africa devoted to fact checking. They were held on the 5th and 8th of May respectively.

The Public Affairs Section at the Consulate in Lagos, in collaboration with Lagos Television (LTV), a leading state-owned broadcast station, hosted reporters and editors from broadcast, print and online media; journalism students, and faculty; as well as senior media executives for a program on May Kamardeen Ismail receives his certifi cate 3rd. from Kingsley Uranta of Channels TV and During the program themed “Critical Information Offi cer Minds for Critical Times: Media’s Russell Brooks Role in Advancing Peaceful, Just, and Inclusive Societies” Consul General F. John Bray gave the keynote address underscoring the United States Government’s support for the Journalism 101 Workshop freedom of the press. “ We believe by Susan Dauda that an unfettered press is essential Veteran U.S journalist Bill Hinchberger reminded the journalists for democracy to thrive,” the Consul Hinchberger shared his expertise that another basic principle of General said. with Nigerian journalists at a training journalism is that they should be a hosted by Channels TV. Organized voice for the voiceless. Public Affairs Offi cer Darcy Zotter in collaboration with the U.S. delivered welcoming remarks, while Embassy Abuja, Hinchberger took Ethics was also emphasized during the distinguished speakers including Mrs. the journalists through some of the training. With so many utilizing social Funke Egbemode, President of the fundamentals of journalism including media for information, journalists Nigeria Guild of Editors; Mr. Dapo story development, locating sources, must uphold higher standards than Olorunyomi, Publisher of Premium accuracy and objectivity, interview the norm to distinguish themselves Times; Mr. Simon Kolawole, Publisher techniques, ethics, and balanced from the competition and maintain of TheCable; Mr. Tomi Oluyomi-Lords, coverage. the trust of the general public. Media Law and Ethics Lecturer at the Nigeria Institute of Journalism (NIJ) He fi rst enumerated that the basic Hinchberger repeatedly emphasized and Mr. David Ajikobi, Nigeria Editor principles of journalism include precision, clarity and effi ciency in at Africa Check explored the role of honesty, fairness, curiosity, writing and producing stories. The fact checking; media ethics and law; skepticism, persistence, accuracy, increased competition in today’s twenty-fi rst century gatekeeping; and attention to detail, individual effort media environment certainly pushes the skills needed for digital journalism. and teamwork. Hinchberger listed journalists to try to get the story on social media, data, news stories, and the air or in print fi rst but it is just An inter-collegiate debate competition issues people are talking about in their as important to fact check and make followed the speakers. Public Affairs communities as potential sources of sure that they get the story right. Offi cer Darcy Zotter chaired the panel story ideas. of three judges. At the end of the Many of the participants asked competition, University Regarding the concept of objectivity questions concerning how to navigate (LASU) students emerged as the in journalism, he said a journalist between the competing interests winners with the must recognize that every person of their medium and the rights of (UNILAG) coming in second. Nigeria has some form of bias. He encouraged the public especially when covering Institute of Journalism (NIJ) and Yaba journalists to admit their particular sensitive political issues. Hinchbrger College of Technology (YABATECH) biases which might include race, advised them to be persistent and also participated in the debate. All age and gender and strive to negate professional, recommending that they of the competitors were awarded the effect of those biases in order to also cultivate a good relationship with certifi cates of participation. be fair to all sides in their reporting. their editors.

CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 7 NUGGETS the respective cabinet departments institutions, OAK TV released its fi rst Lessons for Nigeria in the “First 100 Days” of President report headlined “U.S. Transparency Trump’s Administration. Led by Bill to expose illicit funds from Nigeria, by Sani Mohammed Mandela Washington Fellow, Adeshola others.” The report was broadcast by Komolafe, OAK TV’s two-member crew OAK TV on YouTube and went viral, he Media Co-op program is toured the United States, guided by it was also published by the Premium a key U.S. cultural exchange Media Co-op producer Bradley Hague, Times, The Guardian newspaper and Tthat provides foreign media from June 26 to July 9, 2017. others. organizations the opportunity to experience the workings of American The crew has returned to Nigeria, institutions and American society with lots of stories to tell about in general. These co-ops enable the budgeting and lobbying broadcasters to travel throughout processes in the United the United States to interview States Congress. Utilizing policymakers, activists, professionals, its multimedia and everyday citizens who will platforms and help them tell the American story , partnerships with drawing lessons that may enhance other media good governance, social inclusion, or economic prosperity in their own countries. OAK TV, a Nigerian media outlet that focuses on the National Assembly, wanted to examine the U.S. federal budget process, including the role of the legislative branch, the Congressional Budget Offi ce (CBO), and OAK TV’s Adeshola Komolafe and Abdulaziz Ahmad Aliyu, with their Media Co-op producer and guide, Bradley Hague

Every summer, the U.S. Mission to Nigeria hires young American high school or college students to serve as interns. Crossroads asked two of the 2017 interns what had they learned during their time in Nigeria, here’s what they had to say…

Julia Public Aff airs Section I was able to participate in a journalism workshop for a week and through that experience, I interacted with Nigerians who really want to help other Nigerians by providing information to the masses. I also learned more about the history of Nigeria through a lunch discussion with people from the North and the South. The best part about working in the Public Aff airs Section, however, was learning about the impact the U.S. Embassy has with various programs that Nigerians were able to be a part of, such as the Mandela Washington Fellowship, Young African Leaders Initiative, and the Fulbright Program, to name a few.

Brandon USAID I learned that Nigeria is the largest funder of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a multinational regional economic organization promoting peace and economic cooperation. The organization has 15 members and was established in 1975 following the signing of the Treaty of Lagos. Its headquarters is located in Abuja. In the past, ECOWAS has encouraged regional economic self-suffi ciency and supported peacekeeping missions in Liberia and Sierra Leone.

ECOWAS has also partnered with USAID to counter violent extremism, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase electricity output.

8 CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 Twenty-year old Timi Odueso is the winner of Twenty-year the 2017 World Contest hosted by Short Story Eco Writing Day Environment Embassy Abuja. U.S. The purpose of was open to amateur, the contest, which awareness environmental was to promote writers, unpublished and literacy will be a better the world student, Timi believes An intending law place if books. more people read Timi Oduese In Our Woods

SPECIAL CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 9 * “It will slowly kill them”, Baba tells me one day as we are moving moving are as we kill them”, Baba tells me one day “It will slowly The up on our snares. to check the green forest through slowly its It is still alive, rat. has caught a large now at are one we the teak-colored slightly wriggling gray body bloodied around point of stake. the wooden the one with will?”, I ask as Baba hands me the knife, “What piece of red fraying its hilt. cloth tied around on the and I can feel his eyes in Oko”, he replies “Living like that it must have broken and now anytime I walk to her with a bush I walk to her with a bush anytime and now broken have it must and garri, egusi, tomatoes I think for in hand to be exchanged rat of rolls taken to carry those heavy have men it must many how of shards the broken above doesn’t up from Kook Mammy wood. want and she asks you tell her what You with you. not bargain her half give and she it. You a rabbit for can give you what you will not get will get. You It is all you big onions. two you gives anybody else from will not get much And you her. else from much our bodies to just enough for a lot to eat; have don’t So we else. to againwhat to find around to stumble day onto the survive our souls to survive. enough for But not nearly eat. even food too much was once food; there that Baba used to say over fought everyone But that to live. so hard it wasn’t and that the abundance ended up wasting it, destroying we it. And that setting a getting it and therefore other from each to prevent the He said that in the process. ourselves boomerang trap for killed the food, they that Men of away, took our food Long Wars itselfthe earth, nature and most of the people died of hunger. is left. Little clumps of all that are We villages like Oko filled with to and corrupt government a weakened waiting for people slowly portions of and tiny rations send them weekly to keep their food been this has always the government that He says bodies alive. more different, the people were that corrupt and stoic but way, there most importantly, was hopeful and that the world that alive; was just waiting to be found. the food that was food; I know before I pull the trigger. before I know kill. This will be a hard aiming to shoot. Even gun is too old to be silent when Baba’s making tiny shoulders and walk, it rattles, I sling it on my when to fall wooden parts threaten crackling noises as the different see we It is not often that have. apart. But it is our gun; all we bush are is abundant All that in our woods. here, deer around One little deer or antelope. And very squirrels and rabbits. rats, of that has a face so angular I am sure friend, Musa, who Baba’s if I put the straight handle of one of spoon against wooden Pegi’s a lion he once saw that says adequately it will measure his cheek, Musa said it; But Baba simply nodded when in our woods. here, Musa often added spice to his stories and he told me that later, if was a wild dog and I wondered saw all he probably that Musa spiced just like how else knew his stories were everyone knew that curry I don’t to the rice when she has added too much knows Pegi seconds. to her ask for metal plate bring my grazing lightly, It stands there, The deer has still not noticed me. sign ofat any waiting to jump flicking around, eyes its brown a not I have me. a premonition, a predator, for Waiting predator. I careful. be very Not since I spotted it. must taken a step yet. Do not shake”, he says. Slow. head.”Slow. in my voice hear Baba’s ofSo I start to bring up the nozzle the gun. I start to aim. more even and beef, expensive is very chicken says Pegi My sister, a thin mostly filled with stock fish; our soups, so; so our pots are most of do not eat We broth. watery give make; we the kills we gun away, take Baba’s don’t they some to the soldiers so that a night to drag away at into our room break don’t they so that in attention call me to stand at don’t they so that Pegi, screaming offront strip of they them while I am clothes and deem that my But majority offit to hold the baton. to Mammy we give the kills, the center of at the rations shares who woman the fat Kook, of stands up because the rolls never the village; one who fat Baba her down; weighed her neck and waist have between I guess but chair a wooden used to have Kook Mammy that says 10 CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 escape this idiosyncratic normalescape this idiosyncratic Baba has said will that death all of through sweep Oko. with me” he come to these woods You with me. come here “You as if on his chin the stubble His hands still scratching replies. he is hands own me to put my deep in thought and silently waiting for thought. and join him in blissful chin bare on my and so I point it out to him. I think Baba has begun to forget to us only” Baba. It is not exclusive “Most people come here and I look up see the smile in his eyes. it is”. He says “Yes something; perhaps a he wants to reveal Baba only does this when ofsecret to find the best the wild goats to follow hunting; or how back to its hole and trailing a rabbit or even blackberry groves; he does it. how out. I used to wonder burrow smoking the whole harshness in his Baba could speak sometimes with so much How told me, was the one who Pegi tone and still smile with his eyes. gift”. “It is a rare “Not anymore.” “No one comes in this deep”, Baba says. and I this far Pegi brought have because you “And this. I know I ask. will not die like the rest?”, we is why into the woods and I Pegi that He says Baba nods his head and tells me “Yes”. it is because He says eyes. life in our we have that different; are of to the joined our roots have we that He says these old woods. ofroots it is why that connected. He says are we that the trees; rosemary, spices like she can find rare where knows only Pegi only she could enter the forests it is why tarragon and cumin; that in the spring months and come back with a sackful of red ruby I am I run almost as fast deers and why it is why apples; that have ofnot afraid to climb up the tall groves “You bamboo trees. than more are “You Baba tells me. connected to the woods”, easy it for “How not see”, he asks. Do you else in Oko. everyone in the cool to lie down prefer you much How to be here? you shade of of than under the dusty haze rather the trees the huts? back of knees to the floor with blackened head as I bring my my the refused to do, the snare what hand to finish the knife in my metal ofred cloth ignoring my palm, the the hilt slightly chafing its duty of palm. my comforting Baba. Not living in Oko, will kill everybody “It is hunger that head telling me in my voice with Baba’s inside it”, I answer the heart. the kill, “Straight through in for sharply as I move I plunge the knife into side with it. Mercy”. around play Don’t of and feel it squirm the rat a split second, shudder and go for will not need you to the dead meat, I whisper still. It is better now, rest of and suffer like the here to stay at Baba and he us. I look up smiling with pride and the left one that eye his right hazel nods, color doing nothing as usual. I do not white has a silver-and-milky wild does, though, he has had bigger kills, he is proud why know the heart of knife through only stuck my hogs and I have dogs, a rat. and brings his hands up to He opens his mouth to continue his voice “Minna, listen to me”, he says, stubble. his white scratch they getting harsher “No one in Oko will die of Surely, hunger. no single one of but will all die with empty stomachs them will die of of make sure Our rations an empty stomach. It that”. of he is talking about the death pains me that the people in Oko, head, it clicks and in my our loosely knit family but our friends, Baba has said. it is true; just like all else that and I know registers Baba cuts me off. but and I also - “, start to say you “So Pegi, “No”, he stops me. “Why?” of like the rest do not live and Pegi will them. And thus you “You not die like them” the in Oko eats Baba?” I ask. Everyone different we are “How can we family included, I do not see how own my same thing, CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 11 There are no strong men in Oko. Only small bodied ones. Men Only small bodied ones. men in Oko. no strong are There in the sun, working by been blackened skin have brown whose arms Men whose beans and yams. maize, planting and harvesting if muscled be heavily would Some of had full bellies. they these It is too heavy I drag in the deer. men come to meet me when enough and I I am not strong me to carryshoulders, for on my faces men whose are They dragged it quite far. I have am tired, teeth whose Tama Musa with the angular face, too well. I know sections of the hard chewing from crooked are Zuba sugar cane, his left seemed to be looking up that so crossed are eyes whose The soldiers friends. come Baba’s below; his right stared while shouting are dragging in. They are we see what they to us when I questions and smiling so wide I am afraid their faces will tear. it is a single deer and if all so happy, are they why do not know They get a single bite only. each would it, we all to eat were we dashes in to get the knife Pegi an elated us to our hut where follow Pegi when around spread hilt, it is the same vibe that with the red came back with the apples. I go to say day. the next to go back into the woods I prepare she sits outside using the knife of to Pegi; goodbye skin the brown needs of A pelt that is left of This is all that the deer. yesterday. the given pieces of and a few tiny to be cured have We venison. because their even than their share more soldiers their share, their waiting teeth. And to bare just excuses wide smiles are basketful pepper and some oranges us a tiny gave Kook Mammy most of for in exchange and all of the meat the bones and when was that it. The little meat for will get more we the pelt is ready, could keep only a little the hungry We for left shared men in Oko. I should that but today meat will eat we says Pegi ourselves. for It and I nod. “I know. it with her eyes a feast. She says not expect something other than stock fish. to eat will just be a nice change and I walk out ofTill I come”, say the dusty through the house, despair of Oko and into the woods. * Do you not feel the forest running through your veins when you you when veins your running through not feel the forest Do you It is me. the small spring?”, he pauses and looks at drink from one of me to the bones; chill his drilling looks; the ones that make soul; the ones that memories into my will etch ones that will and Pegi he is talking about. “You me truly understand what Because to both ofnot die like the rest. these these woods, you, clumps of sky and clear water earth, blue-gray brown green trees, It is your escape. It is your meals. for than another source is more to the despair of bravado your life, are And because you Oko. be able Oko will never in these woods, are you when truly alive and as these woods as wild and alive are lives Your to kill you. the life out them again”, to snuff again be able Man will never ofhe raps his right hand on the bark mahogany.” a thick tree, And if if in Oko truly knew this, everyone could be one with they then Oko will not kill them that are, and Pegi as you these woods I do not let Baba said, but what eyes, easily”. It brings tears to my I turn and bring around though I guess he knows. him see even and turn to face Baba who around eyes dirty shirt to clean my my pretending our other snares, on to check should move we says he has not taught me something useful; like I had cried that simple words. over can it not brain. How into my is deeply sated The conversation he with me before meaningful last conversation be? It is Baba’s and elder sister called it, going away my is what That goes away. buried mats and wrapped him up in thick raffia We not dying. the back ofhim at to the soldiers and went the house and then we “3313, Baba was no more. in their book that it there registered the desk and he nods scratches tells the man at sir”, Pegi of lies open in front out something on the big book that him. given are born, are you You done in Oko. This things are is how out. One comfort is scratched number you die, You a number. came out of in the form death of Baba’s paper bag a small brown of Mammy rations; was hidden inside our weekly that meat goat No one else. anything No one gives Baba well. had known Kook to spare. has anything 12 CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 NUGGETS Africa’s Newest The YALI Program Priority American Space by Diran Adegoke he U.S. Mission Nigeria selected 100 young OPENS in Lagos Nigerians to participate in this year’s Mandela by Sam Eyitayo TWashington Fellowship from June 15 to August 2, 2017. The fellows were selected from 22,000 applicants after a rigorous review process including a reading of 1,600 applications by Mission staff and interviews of 400 fi nalists in seven cities. The pre-departure orientation featured the participation of leading business professionals and NGO leaders who aligned with the fellowship’s four tracks: business, civil leadership, public management, and energy. Mrs. Toyin Saraki, founder of The Wellbeing Foundation Africa and wife of Senate President Bukola Saraki, spoke passionately about grassroots organizing and her foundation’s priority, maternal health.

Consul General F. John Bray (L) and Ambassador Symington (R) at the open- ing of the American Corner at CcHUB, Yaba, Lagos

n May 26, 2017, Ambassador W. Stuart Symington launched Nigeria’s fi rst state-of-the art Priority OAmerican Space. At the event, attended by technology leaders and the media, Ambassador Symington explained that the space is a center for Nigerians to develop innovative ideas, as well as learn about the United States and its people.

The Space is hosted in Yaba, Lagos by the Co-Creation Hub (CcHUB), a business incubator that networks and sometimes Tonye Cole with some of the 2017 Mandela Washington fellows during a funds “social entrepreneur” startups whose businesses reception held in their honor before their departure solve compelling social problems. CcHUB CEO Bosun Tijani Members of the YALI Network Abuja gathered for the declared that “we need to use the creativity of every single 8th edition of their “Face2Face” mentoring series to person in our society to lift society forward.” The beauty [of discuss youth participation in politics with American this space] is the ability to come in and collaborate. ” Corner University Professor of Government and and former Director Toluwani Johnson took the Ambassador and Consul Chevy Chase, Maryland, Mayor David Lublin. Speaking General F. John Bray on a tour of the Space, followed by a via digital video conference, Lublin highlighted the tour of CcHUB’s incubation operations in the same building. importance of young people educating themselves on the issues, speaking out on priorities that matter to The Space, now open to members of the public, is composed them, and running for offi ce to ensure action through of a Makerspace - a tech area designed to promote digital representative government. Lublin admitted, “It’s a skill-building; a workshop space equipped with the latest simple concept. By virtue of your age, you’re going to laptops and tablets for internet learning; a conversation space be around longer than older people. These issues will for small group meetings and research; and a meeting space matter to you more.” Lublin gave pragmatic advice on that supports innovation and creative collaboration. With starting a political career, referencing his own activity a rich array of programs and trainings, this new Priority in local government. The group discussed differences American Space which is the tenth of its sort in Africa and similarities between the American and Nigerian and 67th worldwide, will promote ingenious ideas, critical systems and emphasized the need for transparency and thinking and reasoned discourse. accountability in government.

CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 13 CULTURAL BUILDING FRIENDSHIPS IN CULTURAL PRESERVATION The Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) Experience By Nengak Daniel Gondyi

ICCROM’s Dr. Terry Little (right) leading a reorganization team in the National Museum Jos igeria’s cultural diversity is Bello University Zaria and ICCROM, a leaking roof. Artefacts brought in celebrated at home and abroad; an international cultural preservation by vendors for sale to the museum but not many appreciate the hard organization based in Rome. The were clustered while awaiting expert Nwork that goes into preserving goal of the Re-Org Nigeria project assessment and purchase decision. such a heritage. The Embassy of the is to support preservation efforts in United States of America in Nigeria Nigeria by training offi cials from 12 The trainees and facilitators has worked with stakeholders over national and university museums reorganized the museum during the years on a variety of cultural on preserving museum collections the workshop; storage rooms were preservation projects through its using a method of reorganization and cleaned, shelves reinforced and Ambassadors Fund for Cultural classifi cation. The National Museum additional shelves built. Over 20,000 Preservation (AFCP). Some in Jos was chosen as a host for the artefacts held by the museum were prominent AFCP projects include training. cleaned, sorted and re-shelved. the preservation of the 18th century Although funding was needed for Gobarau minaret in Katsina, one of Hands-on Training for Curators this reorganization, the zeal and the oldest multi-story buildings in dedication of the eager curators is Nigeria; and the restoration of 12th In May 2017, the Re-Org Nigeria perhaps the most important resource century Kofar Kansakali, the oldest of project partners hosted a 15-day for this transformation. the 15 city gates to the walled old city training workshop for 40 curators of Kano. from 12 museums at the National Between June and December 2017, Museum, Jos. Before this training, the 40 trainees will use the Re- In 2016, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, the storage section of the Jos Org methodology to reorganize 12 through the AFCP program, provided Museum was simply an eyesore: museum collections. Come December funding for the “Re-Org Nigeria: decaying wooden artefacts were 2017, the Re-Org Nigeria project team Saving Museum Collections” project; stuffed in overcrowded shelves and will convene a debriefi ng workshop a partnership between the National littered on the fl oors with no obvious where curators will showcase their Commission for Museums and classifi cation system. Mold grew on reorganization efforts in their home Monuments (NCMM), the Ahmadu leather and wooden artefacts while museums. terracotta pieces deteriorated under 14 CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 Closing the Workshop; Opening the rich collection in Jos includes Exhibition relics ranging from the symbolic terra-cotta sculptures of the On June 2nd, 2017, the Re-Org Nok people to the cowry shells Nigeria partners hosted a ceremony used as currency and the fi ery to mark the end of their workshop looking masquerades from across and to open an exhibition at the Nigeria. Through this collection, a National Museum Jos. The ceremony mini-Nigeria is preserved for the helped to create awareness about the present and future generations, transformation in the Jos Museum while incrementally adding the and to mobilize the community to the monuments of each passing new exhibition, the fi rst since 2014. generation. Mr. Aruna Amirthanayagam, the Counselor for Public Affairs and his The U.S. Mission in Nigeria is wife, accompanied by members of a friend of Nigerian culture the Embassy staff joined other guests and it will continue to explore in a packed auditorium to award opportunities to support Nigeria’s certifi cates to the trainees. Other preservation efforts. Hopefully, the guests included representatives friendships and partnership forged of the Plateau State government, between people and institutions by implementing partners of the Re-Org the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Nigeria project, traditional rulers, Preservation and through the cultural dance troupes and hundreds “Re-Org Nigeria: Saving Museum of community members who enjoyed Collections” project will outlive a memorable display of cultural the grant and inspire the next dances. generation of friends and curators Artefacts in storage at the National Museum Jos of Nigeria’s cultural heritage. The Jos Museum is Nigeria’s oldest national museum and home to one of the most important collections; yet very few of its 22,000 artefacts have ever been exhibited. The Re- Org Nigeria team decided to host a temporary exhibition called “Hidden Treasures of Jos Museum” featuring 19 well-chosen objects which had never been exhibited. The exhibition was offi cially opened by Mr. Amirthanayagam and will remain open to the public until December 2017 – be sure to visit if you are in Jos and environs. By the end of June 2017, some 1,982 students from 41 schools in Plateau and Bauchi states had been guided through the Hidden Treasures. Thanks to AFCP and Re-Org Nigeria, with the museum collection now reorganized, curating exhibitions will become easier and more frequent.

Cultural Heritage Matters

Museums, and the growing collections they host, are important testaments to the traditions of friendships, innovation and resilience Counselor for Public Affairs - Aruna Amirthanayagam; Professor Umar Buratai - Dean of Arts, ABU Zaria; among the Nigerian people. The and Dr. Yusuf Abdallah Usman - Director General, National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) after the offi cial opening of the exhibition - “Hidden Treasures of the Jos Museum” CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 15 USAID series of local peace dialogues to better understand the drivers of the confl icts, and introduce activities to reduce misconceptions and increase Addressing the understanding. USAID-funded partner Mercy Corps conducted a baseline survey in 2015, which revealed that centrally-mandated solutions were largely ineffective Farmer/Herder and that community-based initiatives would probably prove more effective.

The proliferation of arms, conflict in Nigeriadisplacement, and the rise of By Zach Taylor confl icts before violence escalated. cattle rustling also contributed to Approximately 25 million Fulani But over the last few decades, increased violence. The result has live in nearly 20 countries in Africa, population growth and climate been more than 4,000 deaths last with more than half living in Nigeria. change have radically diminished year alone and approximately $13.7 While many have abandoned their grazing pastures and sources of billion in lost revenue from 2013-15, nomadic lifestyle, about one third water, often resulting in confl ict according to USAID partner Mercy maintain their traditional ways, between the two groups. Corps. making them the largest nomadic community in the world today. USAID observed a worsening The confl ict begins when cattle, situation and began supporting a often tended by young boys, trample Herdsmen and farmers historically crops. In retribution, the herds, played symbiotic roles. Herds grazed which are essentially currency in on crop remnants, while the cows added manure to fallow fi elds. Traditional leaders were often able to resolve

Of the 25 million Fulani in West Africa, about a third continue to live a traditional semi-nomdaic lifestyle of herding cattle. They are the largest nomadic population in the world today. Photo: USAID/Mercy Corps 16 CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 Fulani culture, are shot or poisoned. Interfaith Mediation Center, Mercy frustrations, and perceptions, This leads to escalating violence on Corps and Search for Common participants from all sides agreed the both sides. Facilitated discussions, Ground - convened 150 stakeholders confl ict undermines Nigeria’s unity, known as peace dialogues, between from 16 of Nigeria’s 36 states to fi nd prosperity, and national security. the farmers and herders revealed that ways to integrate these programs the Economic Community of West nationally. Participants included Participants in the peace dialogue African States (ECOWAS)-designated farmers and herders, as well as discussions called on the federal grazing routes have gradually been religious, regional, and ethnic leaders. government to curb illegal weapons, swallowed up by farms, roads, and modernize agricultural practices, buildings. As a result, cattle trod on “The more we work together, the and fully enforce the demarcation farmland and damage crops. more we cooperate, the better for of farmland and grazing reserves. Nigeria,” said Ardo Mahmud Adam, Another major recommendation was These peace dialogues identifi ed a leader of herders in Plateau training for the media, which often solutions, such as delineating cattle State. “We need to have continuous infl ames already tense situations. In routes through agricultural areas and dialogue so that when the inevitable August 2017, USAID and its partner, conducting social outreach to increase confl ict arises, we can resolve it Search for Common Ground, brought understanding. Trainings helped without violence.” together senior members of the villagers on both sides understand media to discuss the current situation that respect and dialogue can lead Given a platform to speak frankly and formulate solutions to these to confl ict resolution. In addition, and respectfully about their concerns, challenges. USAID-sponsored programming on community radio and television educated people on the larger issues driving the confl ict.

As a result, some communities have agreed to reserve ten feet of space between farms for cattle routes. They also agreed to a more transparent system of arbitration and the levy of fi nes by village leaders when fi elds are damaged. In the event of the destruction of crops, farmers and herders would fi rst try to reach an agreement. If none could be reached, cases would be referred to a committee composed of both farmers and herders, who would assess the Above: Osaka Sansui, a farmer living in the Ardor Siding community in central Nasarawa State speaks at a damage and recommend appropriate USAID conducted Peace Dialogue. Photo: USAID/The Search for Common Ground. compensation. Below: More than 150 stakeholders in distinctive headgear participated in a USAID-supported conference to establish consensus on fi nding solutions for the confl ict in April. Photo:USAID/Zack Taylor “Since we came to this agreement in February (2017), there have been no attacks or violence between farmers and herders,” said Osaka Sansui, a farmer living in central Nasarawa State. “This is a critical fi rst step in improving the relationship, an example of how peace can return to the area.”

Following the baseline survey by Mercy Corps, a violent incidence tracking system was implemented in twenty communities. Recent information from this system shows that violence stemming from farmer- herder confl ict fell by at least 25 percent since its introduction.

In April, USAID and partners - CONSULAR/EDUCATIONUSA

2017 Opportunity Grant recipients with coordinator, Malate Atajiri (c)

the President’s Executive Order on over the next 15 years. Every student travel affected Nigeria and whether needs to self-evaluate whether America was issuing any visas at all their plan makes good educational to Nigerians. In fact, the Executive and economic sense. An excellent Order doesn’t single out Nigeria at all, resource for navigating these options while both demand and issuance of is EducationUSA, a component Student visas in all categories remain high. of the Embassy’s Public Affairs Section devoted to assisting students Our core message to prospective interested in studying in the United applicants is that America’s schools States. VisasBy James Swift are open for business and continue As a Consular Offi cer, I’ve adjudicated to welcome students from around Many applicants tell us that they over 25,000 visas, but I’m always the world. There are 8,774 schools in are very nervous during their visa a little excited when I approve a the United States certifi ed to accept interviews and that they’re worried student’s application. international students. Once granted their stammering will sink their admission, students will need a visa. chances. My advice is to just take a As Africa’s biggest economy and Most go for F visas, which cover most breath and speak from the heart. The most-populous country, Nigeria academic subjects, while others seek interview is just a short conversation sends far and away more students M visas for certain trades, such as where the Consular Offi cer will ask to the United States than any nation fl ight training. how you picked your school and how on the continent. As of May 2017, you plan to pay for your education. there were 14,438 active Nigerian The criteria for getting the visa If you are not approved, it’s not the students out of 52,100 for all of are straightforward. The applicant end of the world. You may reapply, Africa, according to the Department must demonstrate that he or she is and every application is given a fresh of Homeland Security. Numbers of a bona fi de student. They must be look by a different offi cer. If you do Nigerian students have grown by 44 able to pay their tuition and living reapply, try to focus on presenting percent in the past three years, and expenses, either through family new evidence, otherwise the result Texas is the most-popular destination funds or scholarships. Finally, they will likely be the same. for them by far. must intend to return home at the conclusion of their studies. After many thousands of interviews To aid prospective students during I’ve done, I still get some vicarious the summer rush, the Consular and For any student, higher education enjoyment when I issue each student Public Affairs sections of Embassy is a huge investment of time and visa. I imagine the adventure of Abuja interacted with local media money. American schools vary travelling across an ocean and in July to get the word out on the widely in quality and cost. Using my embarking on interesting studies. application process. A major part own example, my MBA from the It marks a new chapter in that of this effort is dispelling myths. University of Hawaii took a year and individual’s life, and it adds another Common questions heard in these a half out of my working life and cultural tie that binds Nigeria and the outreach events were concerned how cost about $40,000 that I paid off United States. 18 CROSSROADS | August/September 2017 We have a new website and a new domain name!

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