Politics
THE Organisation for the Advancement of Nigeria (OAN) Inc. and its partner organaistions have celebrated the achievements of the outgoing Consul-General of Nigeria in New York, Amb. Lot Egopija, on completion of his tour duty.
Egopija served the country in that capacity from April 2021 to March 2024.
At a farewell event organised in his honour on SaSunday in New York by OAN, the leaders of the associations testified that his tenure ushered in remarkable achievements, excellent consular services and outstanding relationships with Nigerians within the New York jurisdiction.
States under the New York Consulate’s jurisdiction include New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, Ohio, Indiana, Connecticut, Illinois, Rhode Island, Iowa, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Winconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Minnesota.
Some of Egopija’s notable achievements included the creation of reception hall and waiting room at Nigeria House, quarterly town hall meetings, creation of Consulate Library and creation of Cultural Museum, among others.
He also initiated a historic initiative of raising the Nigerian flag on Wall Street, symbolising Nigeria’s growing presence and influence in the global financial arena.
Ms Tomi Aregbesola, President of OAN in her address, thanked the partner organisations for coming out en mass to bid Egopija, fondly referred to as the ‘The People’s Ambassador,’ farewell.
“This is a heartwarming celebration, filled with appreciation, kind words, and gratitude for his service.
“It is touching to see over 10 Nigerian organisations coming together to bid him farewell and extend their best wishes for his future endeavours,” she said.
Aregbesola also recongnised the supportive role the Ambassador’s wife, Mrs Florence Egopija, which according to her, symoblises the timeless adage that behind every strong, successful man stands a strong woman.
“We appreciate Amb. Egopija and wish him continued success and fulfillment in his journey ahead,” she said.
at a farewell event organised by OAN in New York
Similarly, Mr Francis James, a Board member of OAN, applauded Egopija for his achievements, saying, “You have shown that you are people’s ambassador.
“You have established precedence that it will be difficult for any envoy to follow. You’re an exceptional leader, willing to learn from the community, and you gave your best to serve them.
“Never has it been recorded in the history of the Consulate that we have experienced improved services; you challenged himself and the staff to work hard.
“You started the quarterly Town Hall Meeting, and we are still waiting for other Missions in the U.S. and abroad to emulate this laudable initiative.”
Also speaking, Dr Bola Omotoso, a member of OAN, lauded Egopija’s leadership qualities, excellent relationships, innovative virtues, and open-door policy.
He described him as a great and diligent ambassador, who identified and supported Nigerians working within his jurisdiction.
Other members who spoke also testified to Egopija’s dedication, visionary leadership, and inclusive approach to serving Nigerians.
According to them, he encouraged promotion of trade, investment, and cultural exchange between Nigeria and the United States during his tenure.
Responding, Egopija thanked OAN for hosting the event and appreciated his wife for her supportive role as well as the staff of the Consulate for their cooperation.
The envoy said he pledged an open-door policy when he assumed duty and that he ensured that he did his best in offering improved consular services to Nigerians within the New York jurisdiction.
He, however, urged the Nigerian community to give the same support to his successor, noting that the Mission would continue to work to deliver excellent services to the community.
He also urged them to ensure that they participated in cultural activities to promote the rich Nigerian cultural heritage.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of a plaque to Egopija in appreciation of his meritorious and exemplary service to the Nigerian community in the U.S. (NAN)
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-April 01, 2024 @ 12:19 GMT|
Tags: Organisation for the Advancement of Nigeria.
