At a farewell ceremony held on Wednesday at the US Embassy in Abuja, Ambassador Richard Mills Jr. honored three key members of the Public Diplomacy team for their invaluable efforts in fostering stronger cultural and educational ties between the United States and Nigeria.
Addressing colleagues, media, and guests, Ambassador Mills praised Gilbert Morton, Katarina Ramos, and Victoria Cook for their dedication in public engagement initiatives.
“The Nigerian press is among the most informed and committed on the continent. It’s vital that the US communicates clearly with the press about our policies and goals for both nations,” Mills said.
He acknowledged Gilbert Morton’s pivotal role in media relations and education outreach, recalling how Morton brought him into contact with many influential figures.
One of the Ambassador’s fond memories was opening an AmeriCorps center at Ahmadu Bello University alongside Victoria Cook, noting the profound impact on students beyond Nigeria’s major cities.
He also highlighted Katarina Ramos’s leadership on EducationUSA, a program supporting Nigerian students aiming to study in the US, praising her team’s persistent outreach.
The ambassador concluded by applauding the entire Public Diplomacy team for promoting shared values that will shape the futures of Nigerians and Americans alike.
Gilbert Morton expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and collaborative environment, citing outreach efforts in places like Minna, Niger State as career highlights.
Victoria Cook reflected on her transformative experience working across northern Nigeria and fostering American Spaces programs, emphasizing her passion for empowering local creativity and ideas.
Katarina Ramos shared her admiration for Nigeria’s talented youth and the rich cultural exchange experienced during her posting.
