US Congressman Danny Davis has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to establish a Nigerian consulate in Chicago, Illinois, to serve the growing Nigerian diaspora in the Midwest region. Davis emphasized that a consulate in Chicago would enhance diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the US, increase trade and investment, and provide essential services to Nigerians living in the region.Currently, the nearest Nigerian diplomatic missions are in Washington, D.C., and New York, making it difficult for Nigerians in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Iowa to access consular services. Davis’s appeal is supported by the Nigeria Diaspora Initiative (NDI) and other advocates, who highlight Chicago’s strategic location and vibrant economic landscape as ideal for a Nigerian consulate.Benefits of a Nigerian Consulate in Chicago Enhance diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the USIncrease trade and investment opportunitiesProvide essential services to Nigerians living in the region, including passport renewal, visa applications, and legal assistanceStrengthen Nigeria’s influence in the Midwest and solidify its diplomatic reach in the USAs discussions continue, advocates remain hopeful that the Tinubu administration will take swift action to establish the Chicago consulate, benefiting both Nigeria and the US.
