Dabiri-Erewa Celebrates Nigerian-Americans Elected, Appointed US Lieutenant Governors

The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has congratulated two Nigerian-Americans, KC Ohaebosim and Shirley U. Emehelu, on their emergence as Lieutenant Governors in the United States.

Dabiri-Erewa described their achievements as historic milestones that reflect the growing influence, leadership capacity and contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora.

Ohaebosim, a Democrat from Wichita, Kansas, was elected Lieutenant Governor of Kansas, becoming the first Nigerian-American to occupy the position in the United States.

Similarly, Emehelu, a Nigerian-born lawyer, was appointed Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey by Governor Mikie Sherrill, making her the first immigrant to hold the office in the state.

Her appointment also marks a historic moment for New Jersey, as women simultaneously take charge of the state’s two highest executive offices.

Dabiri-Erewa conveyed her congratulations in a statement issued through the Head of NiDCOM’s Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, Abdur-Rahman Balogun.

She described the achievements as a source of pride not only for Nigeria but also for Nigerians across the world, noting that their emergence demonstrates the capacity of Nigerians to excel in leadership and public service beyond the country’s borders.

The NiDCOM chairman said the accomplishments of both leaders should inspire young Nigerians at home and abroad to pursue public service, leadership and professional excellence.

She urged Ohaebosim and Emehelu to discharge their responsibilities with integrity, excellence and distinction while maintaining a positive representation of Nigeria in their respective offices.

Dabiri-Erewa also wished both officials successful and productive tenures.

Ohaebosim’s election brings to 15 the number of Nigerians reported to have secured elected political positions in the United States.

Other Nigerian-Americans holding elected positions include Will Jawando, Montgomery County Executive in Maryland; Oye Owolewa, an At-Large member of the District of Columbia Council; and Junior Ezeonu, a Texas House of Representatives member representing District 101.

Others are Olaleye Onikuyide of Connecticut, Ukeme Jeter of Ohio, Odus Evbagharha of Texas and Carol Kazeem, who retained her seat in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

In Georgia, Gabe Okoye, Phil Olaleye, Solomon Adesanya and Segun Adeyina also secured State House victories.

Esther Agbaje was re-elected to the Minnesota House, while Justin Onwenu of Michigan and Janelle Anyanonu of New Mexico are among other Nigerians who have secured political representation in the United States.

Dabiri-Erewa commended the Nigerian-American political office holders for their commitment to public service, describing their achievements as a testament to the contributions of Nigerians to societies around the world.