Houston Seeks Direct Flights and Nigerian Consulate to Deepen U.S.–Nigeria Ties

A bold diplomatic appeal has emerged from the City of Houston as Mayor John Whitmire calls for the launch of direct flights between Nigeria and Houston, along with the establishment of a Nigerian Consulate in the U.S. state of Texas.

The proposal was presented during a high-level meeting between Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), and Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum, who represented Mayor Whitmire in Texas. Both leaders described the engagement as "productive and forward-looking," centered on enhancing bilateral relations and serving the large Nigerian community in Houston.

With one of the highest concentrations of Nigerians in the United States, Houston stands out as a strategic location for consular representation and direct connectivity. According to Mayor Whitmire’s team, these measures would improve access to consular services, bolster trade and investment opportunities, and strengthen diaspora engagement.

Hon. Dabiri-Erewa welcomed the proposal, assuring that Nigeria’s Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Aviation are already reviewing the requests. She emphasized the significance of expanding diplomatic infrastructure in locations where the Nigerian diaspora plays a key role in economic and social development.

The meeting also included several key officials: Ambassador Chigozie Obi, former Nigerian Ambassador to Liberia; Mr. Kunle “Kay” Elegbede, International Community Relations Manager for the Mayor; Toni Jenkins, Consular Relations Manager; Isabella Benavides, International Affairs Liaison; and Yorke Sydney, a young intern at the Mayor's office. Sydney expressed deep admiration for Hon. Dabiri-Erewa’s career path from journalism to politics, describing her as an inspiration.

The call from Houston reflects a growing desire among diaspora-focused cities to forge stronger, mutually beneficial relationships with Nigeria one built on connectivity, service delivery, and long-term partnership.