Nigerian Diaspora Leaders Recognised at African Icons Merit Award in Indianapolis

Three leaders of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), Indiana Chapter, have been honoured at the maiden edition of the CBI African Icons Merit Award, held on September 6 at the Global Village Welcome Center, Indianapolis.

The award ceremony, organised by the CBI Community Network, celebrated African professionals and community leaders making remarkable contributions across Indiana. A total of 17 awards were presented, with NIDO Indiana figures clinching three key recognitions.

Chief Emmanuel Nsonwu, Chief Henry Onochie, and Bishop Dr. Sunday Robert-Eze were honoured for their service to the Nigerian community and wider African diaspora in the United States.

Chief Onochie, founder of international architectural firm HCO and a cultural advocate through the Ozo Society of Onitsha, was commended for his leadership within NIDO. Chief Nsonwu, a former president of the chapter and national board member, received recognition for advancing diaspora welfare and strengthening Nigeria–diaspora ties.

Bishop Robert-Eze, who heads Embassy Business Group and serves as a financial advisor at Modern Woodmen of America, was applauded for guiding families and small businesses towards financial stability.

Under the leadership of such figures, NIDO Indiana has implemented impactful initiatives, including passport intervention schemes, National Identification Number registration, and Bank Verification Number services—programmes that have significantly improved access to essential government documentation for Nigerians abroad.

Convener Sunday Lanre Omotoso said the awards were designed to honour Africans whose impact is measurable in their communities, stressing that the recognition was strictly merit-based.