Originally established as the Nigerian Welfare Association, the organisation has evolved over the years, now known as the Nigerian Community in the Gambia.
NIDO-Gambia honors the legacy and accomplishments of the founders of the Nigerian Welfare Association, who first established the group in 1950 in The Gambia, driven by humanitarian principles that transcended tribal and religious boundaries. In 2022, the Nigerian community officially transitioned to the NIDO framework.
The newly elected executive which took office on December 8, 2024, comprises a talented team: Great Akah Ottuduoma as President; Chief Engineer Yomi Jayesinmi as Vice President; Mrs. Arike Kasali; Ubanagu Paul Egbuna as Public Relations Officer; Collins Ebosetale Egbeiye as Publicity Secretary; Romanus C. Emenaka as Financial Secretary; Mrs. Blessing Chinyere Nwokocha as Assistant Director of Studies; Ada Chris Ebele as Chief Provost; and Destiny Ayigbe as Assistant Provost.
In his inaugural address, President-elect Great Akah Ottuduoma, said: “The Nigerian community in The Gambia had voiced their opinions resoundingly during a historic election, unlike any previously recorded in the community’s history.”
He praised the remarkable orderliness, tranquility, and peaceful conduct exhibited by voters throughout the electoral process. Furthermore, he offered his gratitude to the outgoing President for establishing a benchmark that will guide the future governance of Nigerians in The Gambia under the leadership of NIDO.
“The outgoing President, despite being ensnared in a tangle of distractions arising from his prominence, prioritized the community above all else—a rare sacrifice that most leaders would hesitate to make,” he stated.
He confidently promised that the new administration will work diligently to improve the community’s well-being at its core.
“Our administration will embrace inclusivity, attentively hearing the hopes and aspirations of the Nigerian community, and ensuring that no one is left behind,” he promised.
Dr. Mathew Ayawu, the chairman of the event, praised the Nigerian community in The Gambia for successfully electing a new executive to lead their affairs. He emphasised that while the community is made up of individuals from various Nigerian ethnic groups, they stand united as one people under their nationality.
“We aim to see a seamless transfer of power within the community," he stated. Dr. Ayawu expressed confidence that the new executive is a strong successor to the outgoing leadership, given the impressive caliber of its members. "The new president is vigorous, but there is still much work ahead for the community," he noted.
Dr. Sam Chima Ochupor, the outgoing president, expressed deep gratitude to the Nigerian community for the privilege of leading them over the past years. He proudly noted that during his tenure, the Office of NIDO Gambia Chapter recorded minimal crime cases involving Nigerians in The Gambia, reinforcing his belief that "Nigerians are law-abiding citizens."
Reflecting on his six years in office, he remarked, "We experienced no election violence." He highlighted the significant strides made in education, encouraging the new administration to build upon their achievements. Additionally, he urged the incoming leaders to rectify any shortcomings from his tenure and enhance the successful initiatives established during his leadership.
