Nigerian Missions in U.S. Meet with Diaspora to Address Visa Concerns, Counter Misinformation

Nigeria’s Embassy in Washington, D.C., and Consulates in New York and Atlanta held a virtual town hall on Sunday to engage Nigerians in the U.S., address service complaints, and tackle online misinformation.

It was a four-hour meeting, and participants discussed passports, visas, investment, and Nigeria’s global image.

Acting Ambassador Samson Itegboje announced that each consulate now has a passport printer, ending the need for monthly trips to Washington for processing. He urged Nigerians to apply early rather than “at the last hour and want us to do magic.”

New York Consul-General Abubakar Jidda cautioned against “mischievous” social media narratives that harm Nigeria’s image, calling for constructive criticism.

“Whatever name you give your country is the name others will call it,” he said.

Atlanta Consul-General Auwalu Namadina added that “fixing Nigeria is for everybody,” stressing the need for ongoing dialogue.

Participants praised the missions for improved services and pledged to defend Nigeria’s image while attracting investment. The meeting ended with an invitation to the 2025 Independence Day Parade in New York this October.