Nigeria House in New York: Pride Turned to Shame

The Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN) in the United States has decried the worsening state of ‘Nigeria House’ in New York.

In a statement issued by Ms Funmi Dike, OAN’s spokesperson, the group said it was “compelled to draw urgent and serious attention to the deplorable and deteriorating condition of the property.”

The building, located in Manhattan, houses Nigeria’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations and the Consulate General. Once a symbol of national pride, it now stands as a shadow of itself.

“This imposing structure, once a symbol of national pride and diplomatic strength, has now become a metaphor for systemic neglect and administrative irresponsibility,” OAN said.

Staff in Heat, Salaries Unpaid

The central air conditioning and ventilation system has completely failed. The building was designed without cross-ventilation or windows that open. Staff now work in oven-like conditions, relying on hand-held fans strapped to their bodies.

“During one of the hottest summers recorded in New York City, Permanent Mission and Consulate staff are forced to work in suffocating, oven-like conditions,” the statement read.

Visitors, including elderly Nigerians, pregnant women, and children, are also subjected to these harsh conditions while waiting for consular services.

OAN described the situation as “not just inconvenient; it is dangerous.”

The infrastructure is falling apart—plumbing issues, unreliable elevators, stained ceilings, and outdated fixtures. Diplomats now hold meetings outside the building because the environment is no longer fit for dignitaries.

“This is an indictment on our country’s global image,” OAN said.

A Call for Urgent Action

OAN also revealed that staff have not been paid salaries and allowances for several months. This includes both Nigeria-based officers and locally recruited personnel.

“This is unacceptable in any civilised society, let alone for officers posted abroad to represent Nigeria,” the group said.

They warned that unpaid staff may resort to illegal means to survive, including extorting Nigerians seeking consular services.

“This is a recipe for illegal activities, where employees look for illicit ways to make ends meet,” the statement added.

Attempts to reach the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for comment were unsuccessful. The ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, did not respond to calls or messages. Abdulkadri Alkasim, aide to the Foreign Affairs Minister, declined comment.

OAN urged the Nigerian government to act swiftly. “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.”

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