******NIDO Africa Chairman Voices Deep Concern Regarding The Persistent Neglect of Nigerian Citizens Abroad by Nigerian Embassies.
******As NIDO Africa Leadership Laments, Demands Prioritization of Welfare of Nigerian Citizens Abroad.
******University DON Applauds Nigerian High Commission in Ghana On Exemplary Services
By Victor Bieni
As part of efforts towards ensuring that Nigerian Embassies and High Commissions play their vital roles in representing Nigerian interest Abroad, including other key functions such as to provide consular services, promote Nigerian culture, fostering economic and trade relations, as well as prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians in Diaspora (Nigerian citizens abroad), has raised serious alarm regarding the ill-treatment experienced by Nigerian citizens at several Nigerian Embassies across the African continent.
Shocknaija Media (News Online) learnt this today, Saturday, April 26, 2025 from the Nigerian born, Namibia based renowned Professor of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), as he shared the outcome of the recent NIDO Africa’s meeting held in Windhoek, Namibia. Professor Osakwe urged Nigerian Embassies to significantly prioritize the welfare and needs of Nigerians residing abroad.
The University DON who applauded the Nigerian High Commission in Ghana on exemplary services, lamented the stark contrast often experienced at other Nigerian Embassies across the African continent over neglect of her citizens abroad as he presented some major highlights on the frustrations of Nigerians abroad.
In his words: ” I must emphatically state here that our Embassies are meant to be the first point of contact and support for Nigerians abroad. However, some Missions are closing their doors against our citizens, exacerbating their already difficult situations. This calls for deep concern over reports of Embassies failing to provide adequate support, leaving vulnerable Nigerians feeling abandoned. It is on record that many are in dire need of assistance from their government representatives”.
Most Nigeria Missions are turning blind eyes to critical issues like human trafficking and illegal migration, despite NIDO Africa’s efforts to combat these problems. They should be a beacon of hope and assistance, not a source of frustration and disappointment. We have heard too many reports of Nigerians facing difficulties, feeling abandoned, and struggling to access the support they rightfully deserve. While Embassies have diplomatic responsibilities, one of their functions is to protect and support all Nigerian citizens, irrespective of their circumstances*.
“While we acknowledge Nigeria has its own challenges, we cannot simply abandon our citizens in need. We cannot throw away the child with the bathwater. As we acknowledge the challenges faced by embassies, including limited resources and manpower, we also urge them to be compassionate and efficient in service delivery. This should be paramount. We urge Embassy personnel to adopt a more proactive and citizen-centric approach, prioritizing the needs of Nigerians and actively working to address their concerns”.
“However, NIDO Africa leadership on this note, sincerely applaud the Nigeria High Commission in Ghana for its exemplary service and commitment to serving Nigerians residing in the country. We urge other missions across Africa to emulate their proactive and supportive approach. We also, call on the Nigerian government to invest in strengthening its diplomatic missions, ensuring they are adequately equipped to provide the support and services needed by Nigerians living and working abroad. This includes improving infrastructure, streamlining bureaucratic processes, and ensuring transparent communication channels”.
“We use this medium to send our passionate plea to Embassy officials. Remember that you are representing Nigeria, and how you treat our citizens reflects on our nation as a whole! Let us strive to create a diaspora that feels valued, supported, and proud to be Nigerian!!”
Professor Osakwe announced that looking ahead, “NIDO Africa will henceforth, expose instances of negligence and mistreatment of Nigerian citizens. According to him, “this initiative aims to hold Embassies accountable and ensure they prioritize the welfare of the Nigerian diaspora, ensuring that every Nigerian, irrespective of their location, is treated with respect and dignity by representatives of their country”.