42 Years After, Jimoh Ibrahim Instructs the Nigerian Mission House in America to Open a Bank Account with UBA in New York Within 7 Days
The Nigerian Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, CFR, has directed the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to open an account with UBA — something that has not been possible for the last 42 years.
Ambassador Ibrahim said there is no justification for the situation, given President Bola Tinubu’s push to partner with the private sector and have a Nigerian bank like UBA operating in New York where the Nigerian Permanent Mission has been located for 42 years without an account.
According to Ibrahim:
“I want to thank you for taking the time to come and see me, and I truly appreciate you honouring the invitation. While reviewing our accounts, I asked the Financial Attaché if he was aware that UBA is here in New York, and he confirmed he was. However, I am surprised to learn that even though your office has been here for the past 42 years — just like our Permanent Mission — we don’t have any account with you, not even a deposit account.
This is unacceptable. President Bola Tinubu would not be pleased if, after seven days of my resumption, I cannot facilitate a partnership between the Nigerian government and the private sector for collaborative results. Therefore, within seven days, the Financial Attaché must open an account with you. Thank you once again for coming.”
Ambassador Ibrahim warmly encourages the private sector to visit the Nigerian Mission House in New York at any time. He emphasised that the office is for all Nigerians, not just the government, and highlighted that development is a key priority for President Bola Tinubu, with the private sector playing a leading role.
He invited colleagues to hold side meetings during UNGA and to explore business opportunities together. “The Mission is here to support and provide any needed information, fostering a welcoming environment for collaboration,” he said.
The UBA New York Chief Operating Officer, Osilama Idokogi, thanked Ambassador Ibrahim for his patriotism and said UBA would be excited to begin the relationship by opening an account for the Nigerian Mission in New York, 42 years after making initial efforts.
Ibrahim added that opening the account would also assist the EFCC if they need to make inquiries at any time.
