Harold Ogunfemi was elected as Chairman to steer the affairs of NIDO Europe for the next two years/Photo: AfricanCourierMedia

Nigerians in Europe chart new course with fresh leadership

The Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation Europe (NIDOE) has elected a new executive committee to steer its activities for the next two years. The election took place during the organisation’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), held from 7-10 November in Athens, Greece.

The newly elected leadership for the 2024-2026 term succeeds the team led by Dr Bashir Obasekola, who served two consecutive terms as chairman of NIDOE, the umbrella body for Nigerian diaspora groups in Europe.

The elected executives include Chancellor Harold Ogunfemi of the UK South chapter as Chairman; Prince Chima Ibezim (Italy) as Vice Chairman; Otogo Michael (Greece), General Secretary; Engr. Shakiru K. Oladunjoye (Germany), PRO/Assistant General Secretary; Aderemi Paul Afolabi (Portugal), Treasurer; Dr. Alexander Osarogue (Greece), Financial Officer.

Others are Welfare and Social Events Officer: Hon Chibuzor Onwubgonu (UK South); EU Liaison Officer: Ike Okafor (Austria); Information Technology Officer: Wilson Fidel O’Neil (Italy); Officer Without Portfolio 1: Adekunle Ayoola (Poland); Officer Without Portfolio 2: Olaseni Lawal (Germany); and Legal Adviser: Ursul Atueyi (Ireland).

The 2024 AGM was marked by a firm response to recent internal challenges, including unconstitutional moves by some members that threatened the organisation’s cohesion. To address these issues, the General Assembly — the highest decision-making body of NIDOE, adopted several binding resolutions aimed at strengthening unity and upholding constitutional principles.

 

Key decisions included the establishment of the Board of the NIDOE Foundation, which will oversee the Foundation’s operations in alignment with the organisation’s objectives. The appointed Board members are: Harold Ogunfemi (UK South), Michael Otogo (Greece), Dr Bashir Obasekola (Russia), Dr Moses Ogun (Germany), Ernest Ngadiuba (Sweden), Georgian Opara (UK), Tina Ohaa (Ireland), Yemi Aderemi (Portugal), Carol Igboanugo (Ireland) and Eugene Nwosu (Ireland).

The Assembly also approved the creation of a Disciplinary Committee to enforce the organisation’s Code of Conduct, investigate violations and uphold principles of respect, accountability and unity. Members appointed to the committee include Engr Shakiru Oladunjoye (Germany), Jane Gwam (UK), Lateef Erinfolami (Poland) Remi Alao (Switzerland), Evelyn Oboh (Ireland), and Yemi Ogundele (Austria).

Additional resolutions covered the establishment of an Audit Committee, adjustment of membership and chapter validation fees, and the formal recognition of legitimate chapter leadership.

About NIDOE
Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation Europe (NIDOE) serves as the umbrella body for Nigerian diaspora groups in Europe. With chapters in 18 countries, its Board of Trustees is headquartered at the Nigerian High Commission in London. NIDOE’s mission is to enhance the welfare of Nigerians abroad and contribute to national development through advocacy, networking, partnerships and bilateral cooperation. The organisation leverages its vast membership to foster meaningful connections and drive impactful initiatives for Nigeria’s growth and development.

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