Nigerian missions in the US, yesterday, Sunday August 10, held a joint virtual town hall with Nigerians nationwide to address consular issues, clarify policies, and discuss the country’s image abroad. The over four-hour meeting brought together the Embassy staff in Washington, DC, and the Consulates in New York and Atlanta, Georgia, with hundreds participating.
Acting Ambassador to the US, Samson Itegboje announced that New York and Atlanta now have passport printers, while Washington operates two; ending the need for monthly trips to D.C. for printing. He urged Nigerians to avoid last-minute applications, which strain capacity. Itegboje cited President Bola Tinubu’s “4Ds” foreign policy – Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora -recognizing the diaspora’s role in nation-building.
New York Consul-General Abubakar Jidda urged constructive criticism, warning that online misrepresentation harms diplomatic work and Nigeria’s image. Atlanta Consul-General Auwalu Namadina stressed shared responsibility in tackling challenges and pledged follow-up on local concerns.
Participants noted service improvements and called for continued dialogue.
Former NIDO America President Patience Key described the event as “listening, correcting falsehoods, and charting solutions.” The meeting ended with an invitation to the 2025 Independence Day Parade and Carnival in New York this October.