NCGM Chairman Alhaji Kumoye Appeals To President Tinubu For Establishment Of Nigerian Consulate In Greater Manchester

 …Advancing Welfare Of Nigerians In Greater Manchester

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED (reporting from Manchester, UK)

MANCHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM – Chairman of the 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. 

This initiative, according to Alhaji Kumoye 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 StarTrend Int’l magazine and online platform in Manchester, Alhaji 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 Uk or handle business with the Nigerian government.

He stated: “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 Nigerian government could make use of the Nigeria House in Manchester as a Consulate Office for this purpose.”

Alhaji Kumoye reiterated the organization’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.

Alhaji Kumoye also highlighted unity and inclusivity as central to the organization’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”, Alhaji Kumoye assured President Tinubu.

Expressing gratitude, Alhaji Kumoye 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 posited.

The NCGM Chairman 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 endeavors.

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

Alhaji 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 organization 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.

Alhaji Kumoye expressed confidence in the community’s potential, emphasizing 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,” Alhaji Kumoye posited.

Reflecting on the organization’s history, Alhaji 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 enthused.

Alhaji 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 the Federal Republic 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, Alhaji Abiola Kumoye extended the organization’s heartfelt greetings to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the First Lady, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President, Ministers, Governors, National and State Assembly members, and all Nigerians, both at home and in the Diaspora, on the occasion of the New Year 2025.

Alhaji Kumoye also extended the organization’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, saying, “Happy and prosperous New Year!”