The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has congratulated Nigerian-Americans KC Ohaebosim and Shirley U. Emehelu on their emergence as Lieutenant Governors in the United States.
In a statement issued on Friday, November 13, 2026, Dabiri-Erewa described their achievements as historic milestones and a source of pride for Nigeria and the Nigerian diaspora.
Ohaebosim, a Democrat from Wichita, was elected Lieutenant Governor of Kansas, becoming the first Nigerian-American to occupy the position in the United States.
Emehelu, a Nigerian-born lawyer, was appointed Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey by Governor Mikie Sherrill. Her appointment makes her the first immigrant to hold the office in the state. It also marks the first time New Jersey’s two highest executive positions are held by women simultaneously.
Dabiri-Erewa said their achievements reflected the leadership capacity, resilience and excellence of Nigerians living abroad, adding that their success would encourage young Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to pursue careers in public service.
She urged the new officeholders to serve with integrity and distinction while wishing them productive tenures.
Ohaebosim’s election brings to 15 the number of Nigerians who have secured elected political positions in the United States, according to the statement.
Other Nigerians who have won political offices include Will Jawando, Montgomery County Executive in Maryland; Oye Owolewa, an At-Large Member of the DC Council; and Junior Ezeonu, Texas House Representative for District 101.
The list also includes Olaleye Onikuyide of Connecticut, Ukeme Jeter of Ohio, Odus Evbagharha of Texas and Carol Kazeem, who retained her seat in the Pennsylvania House.
In Georgia, Gabe Okoye, Phil Olaleye and Solomon Adesanya won State House races, while Segun Adeyina also secured victory in District 110.
Others are Esther Agbaje, who was re-elected to the Minnesota House; Justin Onwenu of Michigan; and Janelle Anyanonu of New Mexico.
Dabiri-Erewa also commended the Nigerian candidates for their contributions to public service and wished them success in their respective offices.
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