DDiAdmiNAs we navigate through 2024, it has become increasingly clear that the power of strategic partnerships and collaboration is at the heart of sustainable development. This belief was reinforced during the recent visit of USADF President and CEO Travis Adkins to Nigeria. It was a privilege for Diamond Development Initiatives (DDI) to work closely with USADF during this visit, showcasing the impact of our combined efforts in empowering communities, fostering economic growth, and creating lasting change across Nigeria.
At DDI, we remain committed to supporting local communities by providing innovative solutions and opportunities that uplift lives and drive progress. The engagements during this visit—including the transformative grant signing with Reeddi Technologies, the renewed partnership with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), and our continued collaboration with Field of Skills and Dreams (FSD) and the What If Unlimited Basketball Camp—all underscore the significance of our shared mission.
In this blog post, we explore the highlights of the visit and the ongoing projects that continue to make a difference. We hope you feel as inspired as we are by the positive impacts being made across Nigeria. We look forward to continuing our work together to empower even more communities and build a brighter future for all.
Key Highlights of USADF CEO’s Visit to Nigeria
1. Reeddi Technologies Grant Signing – August 19
The visit began with a transformative grant signing ceremony at Reeddi Technologies in Lagos. Supported by DDI, USADF announced a $250,000 investment to scale Reeddi’s innovative EnergyBox systems, which provide clean, reliable electricity to off-grid communities. This collaboration not only addresses Nigeria’s energy challenges but also empowers local entrepreneurs and reduces energy expenses by 40%.
2. Expanding Youth Empowerment with LSETF – August 20
On August 20, USADF, with DDI’s local programmatic support, renewed its partnership with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) through a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This renewed agreement, referred to as LSETF 2.0, builds on the successful 2019 partnership and aims to equip 10,000 young Nigerians with essential trade skills. By creating job opportunities and enhancing employment prospects across Lagos State, this collaboration continues to demonstrate the power of strategic partnerships in transforming lives.
3. Site Visit to Field of Skills and Dreams (FSD)
The USADF team, alongside DDI, also visited the Field of Skills and Dreams (FSD) center, a leading vocational training institute in Lagos. FSD, a key beneficiary of the USADF-LSETF collaboration, provides training to over 400 young individuals in sectors such as catering, fashion, and beauty care. During the visit, the impact of the partnership was evident, as more than 80% of FSD graduates have successfully transitioned into employment or started their own businesses.
4. What If Unlimited Basketball Camp – August 21
The visit culminated in the opening ceremony of the What If Unlimited Basketball Camp, a joint initiative by NBA player Precious Achiuwa, USADF, and the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) Foundation. DDI’s involvement highlighted the significance of sports in youth empowerment and community development. The camp equips young athletes with basketball skills, life training, and social development opportunities, furthering DDI’s mission to create lasting change in underserved communities.
Impact and Future Prospects
Throughout the visit, DDI worked closely with USADF to ensure the success of each engagement, reinforcing the foundation’s dedication to supporting African-led solutions. As USADF’s local implementing partner, DDI has been instrumental in executing over 500 projects across Nigeria, with over $44 million in grants committed since 2001.
This visit not only strengthened existing partnerships but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations. With a focus on sustainability and community empowerment, DDI remains committed to working with USADF and other partners to create a brighter, more prosperous future for Nigeria.
Conclusion
The visit by USADF President and CEO Travis Adkins underscored the importance of strategic partnerships in addressing Nigeria’s most pressing challenges. DDI is proud to continue its role as a key partner in these efforts, helping to drive innovation, create opportunities, and empower communities across the country.
For a recap of the USADF P/CEO’s visit, check out our video on our YouTube Channel—don’t forget to subscribe! Stay tuned for more updates from DDI as we continue to work with USADF and other partners to transform lives and create pathways to prosperity in Nigeria.
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