US Embassy Holds Valedictory Event For Three Key Staff

By Bukar BOLORI

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has held a valedictory event for three key members of its Public Diplomacy section, underscoring their contributions to strengthening US-Nigeria relations through cultural and educational outreach.

The US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., speaking at the ceremony held on Wednesday evening in Abuja used the occasion which had in attendance media representatives, and friends of the embassy to commend the departing officers; Gilbert Morton, Katarina Ramos, and Victoria Cook, and also reflect on the mission’s broader commitment to public engagement in Nigeria.

He said: “The Nigerian press is among the most well-informed, most caring, most committed press, I think, on this continent.

“It is very important that the US engages with the press about our policies, issues, and our goals for both Nigeria and US.”

The envoy acknowledged the role of outgoing Public Diplomacy Information Officer Gilbert Morton in building media relationships and championing education outreach.

“Gil got me into the arena with so many of the folks here,” he said.

Reflecting on his early days in Nigeria, the Ambassador shared a personal memory from one of his first trips outside Abuja, a visit to Ahmadu Bello University with departing officer Victoria to open an AmeriCorps centre.

“It really was one of the highlights of my time here.

“To see the difference that centre would make, and the excitement it brought to students, was unforgettable. That outreach, beyond Abuja and Lagos, showed the power of what the US mission can do,” the amb. stated.

He also highlighted the work of Katrina and her team on EducationUSA, a programme that continues to inspire and support Nigerian students seeking to study in the US.

“Everywhere I went, I was asked about studying in the US.

“That kind of impact is only possible through the kind of diligent public engagement Katrina and her team carried out,” Mills said.

The ambassador concluded his remarks by praising the entire Public Diplomacy team for their tireless efforts in promoting shared values between the two nations.

“We are a team committed to making sure the values Nigerians and Americans share prevail in the world and shape our children’s futures.

“And the biggest part of that is our public outreach, discussing those values, making them understood, and ensuring they endure,” he added.

The Press Attaché Gilbert Morton shared his gratitude for the support he received during his transition to Nigeria, calling it a rewarding professional experience.

Morton acknowledged the robust Nigerian press and the embassy’s educational outreach, particularly in places like Minna, Niger State, which he described as highlights of his time in the country.

“Coming out here, it was a new adventure, and I really could not have asked for a better team to support me in that transition,” he added.

The Pubic Diplomacy Officer Victoria Cook, who coordinated numerous cultural engagements and American Spaces programmes, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to work across northern Nigeria and with alumni of various US government initiatives.

She reflected on her transition from the private sector in Asia to public diplomacy in Nigeria, calling her experience both transformative and deeply rewarding.

Cook said, “It’s been a real privilege for me. I really knew that I was here to empower you, to just make sure that your good ideas, your creative dreams could continue to flourish.”

Another Public Diplomacy Officer, Katarina Ramos, who managed the youth portfolio within the PD section, spoke about the immense potential she witnessed among young Nigerians.

She shared her enthusiasm for Nigerian culture and the warm hospitality she received throughout her posting.

Her remarks underscored the learning and mutual exchange that marked her tenure.

She noted, “You have amazingly talented, industrious individuals here in Nigeria, and it has been a privilege to touch just a few of your lives.”