Nigerians Make History In America As KC Ohaebosim, Shirley Emehelu Secure Top Government Positions

The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has congratulated two Nigerian-Americans, KC Ohaebosim and Shirley U. Emehelu, following their emergence as lieutenant governors in the United States.

Ohaebosim, a Democrat from Wichita, was elected Lieutenant Governor of Kansas, becoming the first Nigerian-American to occupy the position in the state. Meanwhile, Emehelu, a Nigerian-born lawyer, was appointed Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey by Governor Mikie Sherrill, making her the first immigrant to hold the office in the state.

Dabiri-Erewa conveyed her congratulations in a statement issued through the Head of NiDCOM’s Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, Abdur-Rahman Balogun.

She described the achievements of both Nigerian-Americans as significant milestones and a source of pride for Nigeria and the Nigerian diaspora.

According to the NiDCOM chairman, their emergence reflects the excellence, resilience and leadership abilities demonstrated by Nigerians living abroad.

She added that their success could inspire young Nigerians, both at home and overseas, to pursue leadership positions and participate actively in public service.

Dabiri-Erewa urged Ohaebosim and Emehelu to uphold the values of integrity, excellence and distinction while discharging their responsibilities in their respective states.

She also wished both officials productive and impactful tenures, commending their commitment to public service.

Ohaebosim’s election has reportedly increased the number of Nigerians elected to public office in the United States to 15.

Other Nigerians who have secured political positions in the country include Will Jawando, Montgomery County Executive in Maryland; Oye Owolewa, an At-Large Member of the DC Council; and Junior Ezeonu, a Texas House Representative for District 101.

Others are Olaleye Onikuyide of Connecticut, Ukeme Jeter of Ohio, Odus Evbagharha of Texas and Carol Kazeem, who retained her seat in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

In Georgia, Gabe Okoye, Phil Olaleye and Solomon Adesanya also won State House races, while Segun Adeyina secured victory in District 110.

The list further includes Esther Agbaje, who was re-elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives, Justin Onwenu of Michigan and Janelle Anyanonu of New Mexico.

According to information made available to Bush Radio Academy, the latest developments highlight the growing participation and achievements of Nigerians and people of Nigerian descent in political leadership across the United States.