ON BEING CULTURAL AMBASSADORS by Mike Egboh Pathfinder International (April 30, 2006)

“Manner or order that a group favors”; What is Culture? “Manner or order that a group favors”; The distinctive way of living built up by a group of people influenced by ethnic and cultural ties. It also relate to shared knowledge and value of a society or cultural roots.

Who is an Ambassador? Is a diplomat of the highest rank within the foreign Ministry or in Government accredited to represent his/her country in another Country

WHAT DO WE NEED TO BE EXCELLENT AMBASSADORS OF OUR GREAT COUNTRY? ????? WHAT DO WE NEED TO BE EXCELLENT AMBASSADORS OF OUR GREAT COUNTRY?

Qualities of a good ambassador Integrity Honesty Accountability Visionary leadership ability Dependable Reliable Truth Conflict manager

What you must know Excellent knowledge and understanding of NIGERIA. History (kingdoms, colonialization etc.) Geography (size, boundaries, migration) People (Tribes, empire, population) Political Structure (3 tiers of govt.) Economy (resources, industry) Culture (civilization, traditions, religion)

Specifics on Development Evolution Education Demographics Progress Sophistication Complexity Cleverness style

What do you know about NIGERIA? Good Frontline against Apartheid Technical Aid corps Regional peace keeping Human resources Support to African nations UN peace efforts Bad Military Rule Bad governance Corruption Drug Fraud

My Role as a fellow What do I need to communicate? How do I communicate it? To whom do I communicate? What support do I need or have? How do I access the support? How do I deal with resistance or distraction?

Why me? WHY NOT YOU?

Pledge I pledge to Nigeria my country and to the IFP program To uphold the values and ideals of IFP program goals and objectives To use the knowledge and skills acquired during this fellowship to advance the cause of social justice in my country and the world in general To be an agent of change in the socio-political transformation of my country Nigeria and the African continent. So help me God.

Self Charge “IF CHANGE MUST HAPPEN IT MUST BEGIN WITH ME” THANK YOU.