Get Guardian on GoogleFourteen Nigerian-Americans have emerged victorious in the November 3, 2026, United States midterm elections, securing elective positions across several states and Washington, DC.
The victories, which span state legislatures and local government positions, have attracted celebrations among Nigerians, with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) congratulating the successful candidates.
NiDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, announced the development on Wednesday, November 4, describing the victories as a reflection of the growing contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora to public leadership.
Among the successful candidates are Segun Adeyina, Gabe Okoye, Solomon Adesanya and Phil Olaleye, who secured seats in the Georgia State House of Representatives.
In Maryland, Will Jawando emerged winner of the Montgomery County executive election, while Esther Agbaje secured victory in Minnesota’s State House District 59B.
Other winners include Ukeme Awakessien-Jeter of Ohio, Junior Ezeonu and Odus Evbagharu of Texas, Olaleye Onikuyide of Connecticut, Justin Onwenu of Michigan, Janelle Anyanonu of New Mexico, Carol Kazeem of Pennsylvania and Dr Oye Owolewa, who secured an at-large seat on the Washington, DC Council.
The successful candidates represent different constituencies across Georgia, Maryland, Minnesota, Ohio, Texas, Connecticut, Michigan, New Mexico, Pennsylvania and Washington, DC.
Congratulating the elected officials, Dabiri-Erewa wrote: “Hearty congratulations to Nigerian Americans who won elections in the US. Wishing all of them great success.”
She also described their achievements as a source of pride and a testament to the talent, resilience and leadership of Nigerians making a difference across the world.
The victories mark another moment of Nigerian representation in American public life, with the elected officials expected to take on responsibilities ranging from state lawmaking to local government administration.
As they prepare to begin or continue their respective tenures, their achievements have drawn goodwill from Nigerians at home and abroad, with many wishing them successful and impactful tenures.
