Access Bank partners Carrington Fellowship to empower Nigeria youths

As part of effort to commemorate international youth day, Access Bank Plc. has partnered with the Carrington Youth Fellowship Initiative (CYFI), a programme of the U.S. Mission in Nigeria to build the capacity of young Nigerians.

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The initiative named after former American Ambassador to Nigeria, Walter Carrington, is investing in the leadership capacity of young people in Nigeria to drive proactive civic engagement that promotes good governance, economic development, accessible healthcare, inclusive education and civil liberties.

The one year-long training programme empowered 47 youths in Lagos, Oyo, and Ogun States, ended with a one-day workshop and graduation ceremony on August 8, 2023, at the residence of the U.S. Consul General in Lagos.

The Carrington Fellowship mission is to empower young Nigerians with proactive engagement, training, collaboration and networking opportunities that promote careers development, and build organizations, and drive active citizenry. The fellowship, renowned for its commitment to nurturing emerging leaders, showcased its unwavering dedication to empowering talent within the region.

CYFI President, Olusola Owonikoko said Access Bank Plc’s involvement in social impact development exemplifies its role as a responsible corporate citizen with multifaceted approach, encompassing education, empowerment, and sustainability that reflects a genuine commitment to making a positive difference in communities and driving holistic progress.

He pointed out that the success of the 2022 CYFI Fellowship is a testament to Access Bank’s profound impact from inception to execution of this cohort, which has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication in sponsoring the fellows in Oyo State and the health team in Lagos State.

“The invaluable support has amplified the fellow’s efforts, resulting in a program year that meets high standards and sets a high benchmark for excellence

“The celebration was held at the residence of the U.S. Consul General, with a reception to honour the accomplishments of the outgoing fellows and welcome the new fellows to the Carrington Fellowship,” he said.

Distinguished guests, including leaders from various sectors, mentors, and partners at the event reaffirmed their commitment to nurturing leadership excellence.

Some of the impact projects designed and implemented by the graduating fellows included the Tiwani health project in Lagos State and iRECAP project, Project City Clean, and Project C4Maya in Oyo State, Tiwani health project trained traditional birth attendants in Ikosi, Lagos State to help them hone modern maternal health care skills and held a community sensitisation on maternal health and personal hygiene.

“We are immensely proud of the achievements and growth demonstrated by the graduates, their unwavering dedication to personal and professional development resonates with our values. As we expand our reach and impact, we are excited to witness the positive change they will undoubtedly bring to their respective spheres of influence.”
Meanwhile in Oyo State, the iRECAP project left its mark by constructing a library in Arikanki Village, aiming to foster a culture of reading. Project City Clean took the lead in educating students from four secondary schools on effective solid waste management. They orchestrated an environmental hackathon to encourage innovative solutions for addressing floods in Oyo State.

“Project C4Maya, another remarkable endeavor, established a cassava processing factory and provided comprehensive training to local farmers on cassava processing techniques. This initiative not only bolstered agricultural practices but also contributed to the economic development of the region.” he said.

The U.S Consul General in Lagos, Will Stevens remarked that the Carrington Fellowship represents a truly remarkable endeavor within Nigeria.

He said to the graduates “each one of you is engaged in extraordinary projects, effecting profound changes within your communities. What I observe and glean from this program is a profound transformation occurring both within yourselves and among those you collaborate with. The acquisition of exceptional skills stands out as a testament to your journey.”