By Abel Zwànke, Lafia
The Zumunta Association USA Inc., an umbrella body for Nigerians from the 19 Northern states residing in the United States, has announced plans to train 1,000 youths in Nasarawa State on Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
This initiative is part of the association’s annual general meeting and convention, scheduled to take place in Lafia from July 13 to 24, 2025.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to Governor Abdullahi Sule at the Nasarawa State Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, Sule Yakubu Bassi, Secretary of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), said the event would also feature a medical outreach at the newly constructed Gudu General Hospital. The outreach will be conducted by the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas.
“There will also be a sporting event and a golf tournament at the Nasarawa Golf Club,” Bassi stated.
He further disclosed that an investment summit will be held between Zumunta members and investors in Nasarawa State, focusing on agriculture, minerals and mines, education, and health.
“Apart from economic discussions, the convention will feature cultural events, including a gala night and a welcome party. A thematic colloquium will also be held to explore how Nigerians in the Diaspora can shift their focus from home remittances to direct investment in Nigeria,” Bassi added.
He noted that the decision to hold the convention in Nigeria aligns with NIDCOM’s mission of engaging with Nigerians abroad to facilitate their contributions to national development.
“The Board of Trustees of Zumunta Association USA Inc. decided that this year’s annual general meeting should be held in Nigeria, marking the first time in 15 years. Lafia was chosen as the venue because it provides a strategic foothold for the association,” he stated.
Governor Abdullahi Sule expressed appreciation for the recognition given to Nasarawa State and pledged his administration’s full support for the success of the convention.
“Zumunta is me, and I am Zumunta,” Governor Sule declared. “I started as the pioneer secretary when we founded the association in Washington, D.C., in 1991, and later became its president. There is no way I would say no to your request.”
The governor commended the association’s contributions to fostering unity among Nigerians of Northern origin in the United States and urged the organizers to specify areas where the state government could assist.
“Let us know exactly what is expected of us. I am committed to making this one of the best conventions you have ever held,” he assured.
Governor Sule directed Margret Elayo, his commissioner nominee and NIDCOM’s Nasarawa State Focal Person for Nigerians in the Diaspora, to work closely with the Zumunta Association to ensure a seamless and successful event.
With the convention expected to attract a significant number of participants from the United States and across Nigeria, stakeholders anticipate that it will create new investment opportunities and further strengthen ties between the Diaspora and Nasarawa State.
