Nigerians living in the Philippines are grappling with severe diplomatic and immigration difficulties, exacerbated by the continued neglect of the Nigerian embassy in Manila.
Presiding Bishop of TEAM International and President of Nigerians in Diaspora Organization Philippines (NIDOPHIL), Tony Marioghae, has urged the Nigerian government to take swift action to address these issues and safeguard the welfare of its citizens abroad.
Despite their significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy through remittances, many Nigerians in the Philippines face systemic hurdles due to the embassy’s dysfunction.
Marioghae noted that more than a year after a fire destroyed the embassy, it remains in disrepair, leaving citizens stranded without essential consular services.
He also highlighted the absence of a functioning passport processing machine, which has worsened immigration challenges for Nigerians.
“If Nigeria fails to modernize its foreign missions, it weakens our global influence and leaves our citizens vulnerable,” Marioghae warned.
He stressed that Nigerians in many Asian countries face systemic restrictions and called for stronger diplomatic efforts to counter misinformation and protect their rights.
Advocating for greater diaspora involvement in national affairs, he reiterated the need for Nigerians abroad to have voting rights and a stronger voice in government policies.
“Nigerians in the diaspora serve as cultural, moral, and diplomatic ambassadors. Providing them with adequate support will enhance their ability to represent Nigeria positively on the global stage,” he stated.
Marioghae urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to prioritize the reconstruction of the Manila embassy, emphasizing that a well-functioning diplomatic mission is crucial to restoring dignity to Nigerians in the Philippines and strengthening Nigeria’s ties with Asia.
