By Peter Ejiofor
London, Dec. 6, 2023: The Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA), says in spite of its numerous achievements, it would now focus on empowering women, education and legal support for members in need.
The Acting President of the union, Mrs Doris Ikeri-Solarin made the disclosure in her inaugural speech at the NUSA national congress in November in Pretoria.
In the speech made available to newsmen on Wednesday, Ikeri-Solarin said that while the union prides itself in its achievements, it was looking ahead to the future with a sense of purpose and ambition.
She said that the union aimed to enhance the educational opportunities and empowerment of its community members, providing them with the tools they needed to succeed in South Africa.
“We will continue to celebrate and promote our Nigerian culture, fostering a sense of pride and unity within our community.
“In the area of Legal Support: NUSA remains dedicated to providing legal support and advocacy for our community members, ensuring their rights are protected.
“In Community building, we will actively work to build a stronger, more united community, where everyone feels a sense of belonging and support.
“We will also aspire to expand our partnerships and collaborations, furthering our impact and influence within South Africa. I believe that with your unwavering support and active participation, we can realise these goals and strengthen the bonds of our community,’’ Ikeri-Solarin said.
The president, going down memory lane, reflected on the remarkable journey that has brought the union to its enviable height, recalling that the roots of NUSA could be traced back to the dedication and vision of those who founded this organisation.
“NUSA was born out of the need to unify our Nigerian community in South Africa, to provide a support system for our compatriots far from home, and to create a platform where our collective voice could be heard.
“Throughout our history, NUSA has played a vital role in advocating for the rights and welfare of Nigerians living in South Africa.
“We have stood together to address the challenges our community faces, ranging from legal and immigration issues to providing essential services and support in times of need.
“Our history is one of resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of Nigerians in South Africa,’’ she said.
On the achievements of NUSA so far, the president said the union journey had been marked by significant achievements, which would not have been possible without the dedication and collective efforts of the members and partners.
In advocacy and support, she noted that NUSA had been a strong advocate for the rights and welfare of Nigerians in South Africa, saying: “We have provided vital assistance to our community members in various challenging situations.
“NUSA has been instrumental to promoting and preserving our rich Nigerian culture and heritage in South Africa. Our cultural events and activities have brought us closer together.
“Through various initiatives, we have fostered unity and community engagement. We have organised educational programs, social gatherings, and initiatives to empower our youth.
“NUSA has successfully established partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organisations, reinforcing our commitment to the broader South African society.’’
Ikeri-Solarin expressed gratitude to every member, volunteer, and partner who had contributed to the union’s journey.
“Together, we can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of Nigerians in South Africa. Let us use this National Congress as a platform to renew our commitment, share our insights, and work together for a brighter future.’’
