Nigerians in the United States (US), under the aegis of the Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN), have called for urgent action on the deteriorating state of the Nigerian House in New York.
OAN spokesperson Ms Funmi Dike said the group was compelled to draw urgent and serious attention to the property’s deplorable and deteriorating condition.
According to a statement by Dike, the iconic skyscraper, located in the heart of Manhattan, houses both the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the UN and the Consulate General of Nigeria in New York.
“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.
The group added that in recent weeks and months, the building has deteriorated into a condition unworthy of the great nation it represents.
“Foremost among the current challenges is the complete failure of the central air conditioning and ventilation system in a building architecturally designed without cross-ventilation or operable windows.
“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, relying on hand-held fans strapped to their bodies.”
OAN said applicants, including the elderly, pregnant women, children and Nigerians travelling from far distances across the U.S., were subjected to inhumane conditions as they waited for consular services.
The Nigerian organisation said the condition was not just inconvenient but dangerous.
The organisation advised, “We must not wait until embarrassing images of the deplorable condition in the Nigerian House are widely circulated on social media before acting.”
OAN stressed that the building’s decaying infrastructure, including poor maintenance, plumbing issues, unreliable elevators, stained ceilings and outdated fixtures, reflected an embarrassing lack of foresight and priority from those responsible for the upkeep of Nigeria’s diplomatic missions.
“Diplomats, unable to host visiting dignitaries in such an environment, are now resorting to conducting bilateral and multilateral meetings outside the premises.
“This is an indictment on our country’s global image,” the statement stressed.
OAN said it was equally disturbing that the mission staff had reportedly not been paid salaries and allowances for several months.
“This is unacceptable in any civilised society, let alone for officers posted abroad to represent Nigeria and those hired from the host countries.
“This is a recipe for illegal activities, where employees look for illicit ways to make ends meet, or fleece their fellow Nigerian applicants for Consular services.
“In the U.S., where rent and mortgages are due monthly, this is a direct assault on their dignity and livelihood.
“The implications of defaulting on rent or mortgage payments could lead to homelessness or legal action, a situation that should never be associated with those serving the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
OAN regretted that despite previous official complaints and letters submitted to relevant ministries, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Interior, their silence and inaction were deeply troubling.
“The Nigeria House in New York is not just another government property but
Nigeria’s face in the international community.
“It hosts diplomats, world leaders, international investors, and everyday Nigerians seeking service.
“Its current state is not just a maintenance issue; it is a national embarrassment and a threat to Nigeria’s global standing,” OAN stressed.
The Nigerian organisation said its call was for urgent action, responsibility and reform.
OAN noted that Nigerians in the diaspora contribute significantly to the national economy through remittances, professional engagements and international diplomacy.
