By iNewsAfrica Staff | Houston, USA | July 20, 2025
In a bold move to deepen U.S.– Nigeria ties, the City of Houston is urging the Nigerian government to reinstate direct flights between Nigeria and Houston and to establish a full-service Nigerian consulate in the Texas metropolis. The initiative, championed by Mayor John Whitmire and relayed through Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum, highlights Houston’s position as home to one of the largest Nigerian communities outside Nigeria.
Speaking during a high-level diplomatic engagement, Castex-Tatum formally appealed to Nigerian officials to consider restoring a non-stop flight route between Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Lagos or Abuja, citing both economic and cultural benefits. The direct air link, which previously existed before being discontinued in 2016, would revive business, tourism, and ease of travel for thousands in the diaspora.
“Reconnecting Houston and Nigeria through direct air service will not only enhance commerce and mobility, it will reconnect families and open new doors of opportunity,” Castex-Tatum said. “This is long overdue.”
In tandem with the flight proposal, Mayor Whitmire’s administration is also advocating for the opening of a Nigerian consulate in Houston. Currently, Nigerian nationals and dual citizens in Texas must rely on consular services located in Washington D.C., New York, or Atlanta—often facing long delays and costly travel.
“This city proudly hosts over 150,000 Nigerians. Having a consulate here is not just logical—it is necessary,” added Castex-Tatum. “Our Nigerian community deserves better access to passports, visas, and legal support.”
The Nigerian government, through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), responded positively to the call. NiDCOM Chairperson Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa confirmed that both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Aviation are actively reviewing the proposals.
If implemented, this dual initiative could signal a historic shift in diplomatic and economic engagement between Nigeria and the southern United States—boosting investment, tourism, and the welfare of the Nigerian diaspora.
As both governments explore next steps, the Nigerian community in Houston watches with hopeful anticipation, viewing this moment as a pivotal opportunity to strengthen transatlantic bonds.
For more updates on this developing story, visit www.inewsafrica.com
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