As Nigerian delegates move to host inaugural continental conference
Nigerian delegation to the Best Diplomat Conference is setting its sights on hosting the inaugural Africa Young Diplomats and Change-makers Conference on the continent.
This followed a successful outing of African representatives to the just concluded Best Diplomatic Conference held in Turkey.
The conference had brought together young leaders and professionals from around the world to discuss pressing global issues through diplomatic relations and simulations. It was recorded that Nigerian delegations comprising young ones played a pivotal role in success of the conference.
The conspicuous presence of young Africans also culminated in the creation of Africa Young Diplomats and Change-makers to serve as a platform for equipping young Africans with necessary skills and knowledge to navigate diplomacy and foster cross-cultural understanding.
A member of Nigerian delegation, Valentina Ofi Amiebi-Uchegbu, disclosed that participating alongside delegates from various African nations was significant as they shared experiences and insights as well as highlighted some of the challenges confronting the Middle East as a central agenda.
Speaking on the new platform, he said: “Africa Young Diplomats and Change-makers is tailored for African youths aspiring to become change-makers and diplomats. It offers transformative opportunities for collaboration and innovation, addressing shared challenges across the continent”, Amiebi-Uchegbu said.
Adding: “We intend to seize upon this opportunity to secure a consultative status with the African Union (AU) and pertinent regional bodies. We look forward to elaborating on our plans and strategies to realize this important endeavor.”
The young diplomat from Malawi and a Simulation Representative of Botswana, Pilate Seluka, stated that the sight of one of Africa’s young men swiping the prestigious title of the Best Diplomat was incredible.
“Young and passionate African leaders are rising and prepositioning themselves to prepare the continent for the 22nd century. Africa is the future of the world”, he said.
Also speaking, a Nigerian diplomat and Simulation Representative of Shell PLC, Mrs. Valentina Ofi Amiebi-Uchegbu, said that experience at Best Diplomats Conference left her with the belief that Africans can collaborate better in solving various challenges across the continent.
“The preparation before the conference and the simulation during the conference was well managed by the organizers. Representatives of countries came together to discuss possible solutions and arrive at a common way forward on the highlighted issues.
“This we achieved successfully which resulted in forming of friendships due to the meeting of like minds. I look forward to participating in future conferences.”
On her part, diplomat of Nigeria and Simulation Representative of Georgia, Ihunda Eucharia Kejeh, expressed excitement, stressing that the biggest learning from the conference was how exposed and learned Africans are.
“Our attention to details and being true advocates for peace, safety and unity for all is what gives us a common goal”, said Tatenda Mushaike of Zimbabwe.
“When I set out to attend the Best Diplomats Simulation at Istanbul Turkiye, I didn’t know what to expect. The thought of being a part of something as big as the United Nations was exhilarating.
“The Best Diplomats Simulation was indeed, Diplomacy Beyond Barriers. Meeting people from all over the world, working together and sharing ideas irrespective of cultural diversity was a beauty to behold.”
