Nigerian Missions in U.S. Engage Diaspora in Virtual Town Hall, Address Service and Image Concerns

Nigerian diplomatic missions in the United States have held a virtual town hall meeting with citizens across the country to tackle consular service challenges, counter misinformation, and strengthen ties with the diaspora.

The joint session, which ran from 7:00 p.m. to 11:15 p.m. (New York time), brought together the Embassy of Nigeria in Washington D.C. and the Consulates General in New York and Atlanta. Hundreds of participants raised issues ranging from passport delays to investment opportunities, with diplomats providing direct responses and pledging service improvements.

Acting Ambassador to the U.S., Amb. Samson Itegboje, announced that passport processing will now be faster as New York and Atlanta each have a passport printer, alongside two in Washington D.C. He, however, urged Nigerians to avoid last-minute applications, noting that “diplomatic missions are not miracle workers.”

Amb. Abubakar Jidda of New York cautioned against “destructive criticism” and urged balanced feedback, while warning against deliberate misinformation aimed at damaging Nigeria’s image.

Similarly, Amb. Auwalu Namadina of Atlanta stressed that fixing Nigeria requires joint effort from both the government and its citizens, encouraging continuous dialogue to foster understanding.

Participants praised the missions for improved service delivery and professionalism. Former NIDO America president, Patience Key, described the meeting as “a masterclass in listening, correcting falsehoods, and charting solutions.”

The session concluded with a call for unity, positive engagement, and active diaspora participation in national development, alongside an open invitation to attend the 2025 Independence Day Parade and Carnival in New York this October.