Nigerian-American Critiques NIDOA’s Unification as Misplaced Priority
Ejike Okpa, a Nigerian-American residing in Dallas, Texas, has criticized the recent unification of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization America (NIDOA) as a “misplaced priority.” Okpa argues that the organization lacks the structure and substance needed to make meaningful contributions to the development of Nigeria.
His comments come in response to a report from PRNigeria, which highlighted NIDOA’s recent achievement of unifying previously divided factions under a single umbrella. This historic breakthrough took place during the organization’s extraordinary Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Bloomington, Minnesota. The meeting, themed “NIDOA: Building a Strong & United Nigerian Diaspora Community,” was marked by the participation of representatives from various NIDOA chapters across the Americas, aimed at resolving long-standing divisions through constructive dialogue.
Over 20 chapter presidents from the United States, alongside continental chairs from Canada and Brazil, engaged in discussions that were facilitated by an international mediation expert using restorative practices to address past conflicts and reinforce unity.
NIDOA’s mission focuses on promoting patriotism, networking, and cooperation among Nigerians in the diaspora, with an emphasis on contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic development. This recent unification marks a significant milestone in their ongoing efforts.
In his statement to Economic Confidential, Ejike Okpa expressed skepticism about NIDOA’s ability to fulfill its mission. He described the organization as a “bunch of loosely gathered groups without structure or substance,” labeling it a “credible organization” as nothing more than an illusion. “Tufiakwa,” he added in expression of disapproval.
Okpa, a global affairs analyst, asserted that anyone engaging with this group would quickly realize it offers little more than superficial initiatives aimed at impressing unaware Nigerians back home. “No organizations in the U.S. run by Nigerians have operational budgets, administrative staff, or payroll. They are managed by individuals who bring strong emotions to their roles but lack the necessary expertise to operate non-profits effectively,” he stated.
He went on to criticize the misconceptions held by those in Nigeria who see NIDOA as a beacon of hope for improving the country. “These are individuals living in the U.S. who are often clueless about how to genuinely assist Nigeria—other than reminiscing about the past. Can one offer what they do not possess?”
Okpa concluded his remarks with a pointed analogy: “It’s as if Nigerians expect arms and legs from a snake. Believing in that is akin to expecting the sun to rise from the west.”
