The United States Government has approved and provided funding support totaling $453,568 to 45 individuals, non-government organizations, NGOs, and academic institutions from January this year till date.

The grant support covered sundry projects in the areas of human rights, transparency in government, freedom of the media, women and youth empowerment, education, health, entrepreneurship, and the promotion of mutual understanding.

The U.S Consul General, Mr. F. John Bray, who announced the grant at an award ceremony in Lagos on Monday, said the funding support was provided based on the recognition of the commitment of the grantee organisations’ to improve the lives of people in some communities through sustainable projects that bolster good governance, education, and health.

The envoy pointed out that the funding support was part of the United States Government’s efforts to support Nigeria’s economic development, improve livelihood of the citizenry, and strengthen communities.

Bray explained: “The U.S. Mission has several objectives here in Nigeria, one of the foremost is to support a healthier, more educated population in Nigeria. One way in which we work to accomplish these goals is through grants.

“We are so proud to work with such an immensely energetic and creative community of organisations and individuals committed to strengthening communities and empowering fellow Nigerians”, he added.

According to him, each year, the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos, usually invites non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and individuals working in 17 states in southern Nigeria to submit proposals that seek innovative solutions to challenges facing local communities.

Bray explained that in response to the 2018 call for proposals, the U.S. Consulate received about 2000 strong and diverse project submissions and consequently made awards to organizations ranging from $3,922 up to $80,000, depending on the proposed scope of activities.