NCGM chair, Kumoye urges Tinubu to create Nigerian consulate in Greater Manchester

Chairman of Nigerian Community Greater Manchester (NCGM), Alhaji Abiola Kumoye, representing a population of over 250,000 Nigerian citizens residing in Greater Manchester, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to establish a Nigerian Consulate in Greater Manchester.

Kumoye said the move would help alleviate the stress and financial burden faced by Nigerian citizens and other residents in the Northwest, Northern England, Scotland and surrounding regions who require access to government services.

Speaking during a chat with journalists in Manchester, Kumoye highlighted the challenges many Nigerians encounter when traveling to London for consular matters.

The NCGM chairman emphasized the urgent need for a consulate, highlighting the stress and cost implications faced by many Nigerians living in Northern UK while trying to perfect their residence status in the United Kingdom or handle business with the federal government.

He said: “I’m not suggesting that the High Commission in London isn’t performing at its best in supporting citizens, but the challenges and stress Nigerians on this side of the UK face in traveling to London are better experienced than described.

“The cost implication of traveling from our various bases to London is tearing our purse, whereas the federal government could make use of the Nigeria House in Manchester as a Consulate Office for this purpose.”

Kumoye reiterated the organisation’s unwavering commitment to advancing the welfare of Nigerians within the Greater Manchester area.

He noted the NCGM’s pivotal role in showcasing the diversity, resilience, and unwavering spirit of Nigerians both at home and abroad.

Kumoye also highlighted unity and inclusivity as central to the organisation’s mission, ensuring every community member feels supported and represented.

“It is our collective responsibility to foster unity, inclusivity, and progress, and we pledge to continue representing the country with integrity, transparency, and dedication,” he stated.

Expressing gratitude, the chairman commended the Nigerian High Commission in London for its steadfast support.

“I would also like to use this moment to extend my deep appreciation to the Nigerian High Commission in London for its unwavering support and invaluable contributions to our local community in Greater Manchester.

“Your efforts in promoting our culture, fostering unity, and assisting those in need are truly commendable,” he said.

Kumoye urged members to continue fostering love and mutual support while being good ambassadors within the Nigerian Community in Greater Manchester and beyond to achieve greater heights in their respective endeavours.

He praised their collective efforts in building a vibrant and resilient community that reflects the strength and determination of Nigerians.

Kumoye attributed the success of the NCGM to the dedication of its executive members and the broader community.

“The success of the Nigerian Community Greater Manchester as a community depends on the collective effort and commitment of the executive members of the organisation and the entire members of the group.

“We embrace these values and work together towards a brighter, more prosperous future for the Nigerian Community Greater Manchester,” he stated.

Kumoye expressed confidence in the community’s potential, emphasising the importance of unity and collaboration.

“With the support and collaboration of every member, I am confident that 2025 will be a remarkable year. Together, we will overcome challenges, achieve significant milestones, and create a lasting legacy for future generations.

“Together, we can make a positive impact not only within our community, but also across the wider Greater Manchester region,” Kumoye stated.

Reflecting on the organisation’s history, Kumoye who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Lexicon Keys Limited, revealed that over 250,000 Nigerians reside in Greater Manchester, spread across ten boroughs (councils).

He disclosed that the NCGM was established in 1945 by Nigerian students who faced challenges such as racism and lack of support.

“The NCGM was founded in 1945 by a group of students who came to the United Kingdom from Nigeria. They faced difficulties in managing themselves, supporting one another, and fighting racism and discrimination. Hence, they formed the group to look after the welfare of one another,” he said.

Kumoye urged Nigerians in the Diaspora to shun violence and criminal activities, advocating for peace and good ambassadorship.

“Let’s be peaceful in whatever community you are and remain good ambassadors of Nigeria; such actions would enhance our country’s reputation and positive perception abroad,” he remarked.

Celebrating the achievements and unity of the Nigerian community in Greater Manchester, Kumoye extended the organisation’s heartfelt greetings to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the First Lady, Oluremi, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, ministers, governors, lawmakers in the National Assembly and State Assemblies and all Nigerians, both at home and in the Diaspora, on the occasion of the New Year 2025.

Kumoye also extended the organisation’s heartfelt New Year greetings to other countries where Nigerians reside.

He prayed for God’s infinite mercy to protect everyone throughout the year and beyond.