By Folorunso Alagbede, Abuja
The Organization for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN), a foremost diaspora body committed to the welfare and progress of Nigerians in the United States, has called for an urgent action by the Federal Government on deteriorating state of Nigeria House and its staff welfare.
The OAN made the call in a statement on Monday by its General Secretary and Spokesperson, Funmi Dike.
The organization noted with regrets that the imposing structure, once a symbol of national pride and diplomatic strength, has now become an object of neglect and administrative inertia.
It added that in recent weeks and months, the building has descended into a condition unworthy of the great nation it represents.
The statement reads: “The Organization for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN), a foremost diaspora body committed to the welfare and progress of Nigerians in the United States, is compelled to draw urgent and serious attention to the deplorable and deteriorating condition of the Nigeria House, New York, an iconic skyscraper located in the heart of Manhattan that houses both the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the United Nations and the Consulate General of Nigeria.
“This imposing structure, once a symbol of national pride and diplomatic strength, has now become a metaphor for systemic neglect and administrative irresponsibility.
Over recent weeks and months, the building has descended into a condition unworthy of the great nation it represents.
“Foremost among the current challenges is the complete failure of the central air conditioning and ventilation system in a building that was architecturally designed without cross-ventilation or operable windows. During one of the hottest summers recorded in New York City, Embassy and Consulate staff are forced to work in suffocating, oven-like conditions, relying on hand-held fans strapped to their bodies. “Applicants, including the elderly, pregnant women, children, and Nigerians traveling from far distances across the U.S., are subjected to these inhumane conditions as they wait for consular services. This is not just inconvenient; it is dangerous.
“Moreover, the building’s decaying infrastructure, including poor maintenance, plumbing issues, unreliable elevators, stained ceilings, and outdated fixtures, reflects an embarrassing lack of foresight and priority from those responsible for the upkeep of Nigeria’s diplomatic missions.
“Diplomats, unable to host visiting dignitaries in such an environment, are now resorting to conducting bilateral and multilateral meetings outside the premises.
“This is an indictment on our country’s global image.
“It is equally disturbing that staff of the Consulate and the Permanent Mission have reportedly not been paid salaries and allowances for several months.
“This is unacceptable in any civilized society, let alone for officers posted abroad to represent Nigeria.
“This is a recipe for illegal activities, where employees look for illicit ways to make ends meet or fleece their fellow Nigerian applicants for Consular services.
“In the U.S., where rent and mortgages are due monthly, this is a direct assault on their dignity and livelihood.
“The implications of defaulting on rent or mortgage payments could lead to homelessness or legal action, a situation that should never be associated with those serving the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Despite previous official complaints and letters submitted to relevant ministries, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Interior, the silence and inaction from the Nigerian Government on this matter are deeply troubling.
“The Nigeria House in New York is not just another government property, it is Nigeria’s face in the international community.
“It hosts diplomats, world leaders, international investors, and everyday Nigerians seeking service. Its current state is not just a maintenance issue; it is a national embarrassment and a threat to Nigeria’s global standing.
“This is a call for urgent action, responsibility, and reform. Nigerians in the diaspora contribute significantly to the national economy through remittances, professional engagements, and international diplomacy. We expect that the institutions designed to serve and represent us will be treated with the seriousness they deserve.
“The Organization for the Advancement of Nigerians issues this statement not in condemnation, but in deep concern and hope.
“We have worked tirelessly to bolster the image of Nigeria and Nigerians in the United States. We will not stand by and allow our efforts on behalf of our community to be thwarted.
“Let this moment become a turning point where neglect gives way to action and where the dignity of Nigeria and its representatives abroad is protected and elevated.
“OAN stands ready to support the government in finding lasting solutions, but we will not remain silent in the face of neglect and inhumane treatment of our fellow Nigerians. The time to act is now.
“We are watching. The world is watching. Nigerians in the diaspora are watching. We must not wait until embarrassing images of the deplorable condition in the Nigeria House is widely circulated on Social media, before acting.
“Let history record that this appeal moved the hand of government to act”, the statement said.
