Nigerians living abroad have voiced concerns over the poor treatment citizens receive at several Nigerian embassies across Africa.
They called on Nigerian embassies and high commissions to recommit themselves to their essential duties, which include providing consular support, promoting Nigerian culture, strengthening economic and trade relations, and safeguarding the welfare of Nigerians overseas.
Speaking to Daily Independent, Professor Osakwe, a specialist in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), shared the outcomes of the recent Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Africa meeting held in Windhoek, Namibia.
He stressed the urgent need for Nigerian missions abroad to give greater attention to the welfare of Nigerians in their host countries.
While commending the Nigerian High Commission in Ghana for its exemplary service delivery, Professor Osakwe lamented that many other embassies fall short, often neglecting the needs of Nigerians abroad.
He highlighted growing frustrations among citizens who feel abandoned by their country’s representatives.
“Our embassies should serve as the first point of assistance for Nigerians overseas,” Osakwe said. “Unfortunately, some missions are shutting their doors against citizens, worsening their already challenging situations. Reports of embassies failing to offer critical support are deeply worrying, especially when many Nigerians are in desperate need of help.”
He further criticized many Nigerian missions for ignoring serious issues like human trafficking and illegal migration, despite the efforts of NIDO Africa to address them.
“Embassies should be symbols of hope and assistance, not sources of frustration and neglect. Their duty extends beyond diplomatic functions to the protection and support of all Nigerian citizens, regardless of their circumstances,” he added.
