Nigerians In Poland Jubilate Over Appointment Of Chioma Ohakim As Nigeria’s Ambassador

By Ochiagha Nnanna Okere, Warsaw, Poland

Nigerians living in Poland have expressed excitement following the appointment of Barrister Chioma Priscilla Ohakim as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Poland.

Members of the Nigerian community say the appointment signals a new chapter in strengthening diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Poland, while also improving engagement between the Nigerian embassy and the diaspora.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently approved the deployment of several ambassadors to foreign missions, including the posting of Ohakim to Warsaw as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s global diplomatic presence.

Across Poland, Nigerians say they are hopeful the new envoy will bring renewed engagement and improved consular services.

Speaking in Warsaw, Nigerian resident Chukwudi Ani described the appointment as well deserved.

“Her appointment is well deserved. We believe she has the capacity and experience to represent Nigeria very well here in Poland,” he said.
“We also hope her tenure will strengthen diplomatic relations and address issues affecting Nigerians living here.”

Another community member, Obazee Osagie, expressed confidence in the new ambassador’s leadership, noting her experience during her time in public service.

“We learned she served as First Lady in Imo State and played an active role in community development,” he said. “We believe she will show understanding toward Nigerians here and provide good leadership.”

Similarly, Ugochukwu Ikpechukwu said Nigerians in Poland are optimistic that Ohakim’s experience and humanitarian work will help promote Nigeria’s image positively.

“Nigerians here are hardworking people contributing to the economy and society in Poland,” he said. “Her leadership will help showcase the positive side of our country.”

Also speaking, Tunde Adedokun, a doctoral candidate at the University of Wroclaw, said the Nigerian community looks forward to welcoming the ambassador and working with the embassy to address issues affecting Nigerians in the country.

Barrister Chioma Priscilla Ohakim is a Nigerian lawyer, philanthropist and community development advocate. She served as First Lady of Imo State between 2007 and 2011 during the administration of her husband, Ikedi Ohakim.

During that period, she was actively involved in social intervention programmes focused on women, children and vulnerable groups. She also served as Chairperson of the South-East Governors’ Wives Forum and worked with organizations promoting women’s rights, health awareness and social development.

Ohakim founded the Empowerment for Women and Youths Initiative (EWAYI), a non-governmental organization that provided support for widows, youths and disadvantaged families. Through the programme, many beneficiaries received vocational tools, small business support and educational assistance, including scholarships for indigent students.

Over the years, she has received several recognitions for her contributions to community development and women’s empowerment from organizations such as the International Federation of Women Lawyers, the Nigerian Bar Association and the National Association of Women Journalists.

For many Nigerians in Poland, her appointment represents an opportunity to strengthen ties between the embassy and the growing diaspora community.

They expressed hope that her tenure will promote stronger diaspora engagement, support Nigerian students and professionals, and deepen diplomatic, educational and economic cooperation between Nigeria and Poland.