H. Rationale for AFCP Support
This section explains how the project relates to U.S. Government interests.
1. Relation to Integrated Country Strategy (ICS) goals
The project supports ICS objectives released in April 2022:
- Obj 1.1: Representation of ethnic minorities in international databases empowers communities to participate in governance at all levels. Greater awareness will ensure governance is more accountable, inclusive, and responsive.
- Obj 2.1: Large ethnic groups earned international recognition of their heritage with ample skills and resources. This project will mobilize minority communities to participate in knowledge-based economic development.
- Obj 2.3: Quality education should include information on minority history and culture. Inclusion fosters positive identity information linked to mental and physical well-being. Our project will be a major investment in educational resources consistent with the National Language Policy announced 11/30/22.
- Obj 3.2: Expanding ethnographic information will inform peaceful dialogue. The project will invite diverse communities to participate in shared initiatives.
2. Public diplomacy benefits and impacts
In 1998, Madeleine Albright emphasized the importance of showing “a different American face to other countries, one that is non-commercial, non-political, and non-military.” These remarks set an agenda for the establishment of the AFCP in 2001. 2022 marked a rapid expansion of the US commercial interests in Nigeria with the arrival of Google’s Equiano Sea Cable and many other exciting American enterprises. Meanwhile, Nigerians are divided on welcoming US political influence and military support.
This project will emphasize the US appreciation for cultural heritage, inclusive education and governance, and rigorous scholarship. Documentation of 10 focus cultures will directly impact at least 2 million Nigerians from ethnic minorities and touch many more people around the world. Far from a distraction from commercial, political, and military interests, this project will deepen our multi-faceted bilateral relationship in a broadly constructive manner.
