Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, has directed the Permanent Mission of Nigeria in New York to open a bank account with United Bank for Africa within seven days.
Newsonspot reports that he described the absence of any banking relationship between both institutions for over four decades as unacceptable.
Ambassador Ibrahim gave the directive during a meeting with officials of UBA in New York, where he emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between Nigerian government institutions and indigenous private sector organisations operating abroad.
According to a statement issued by his media office in New York, the envoy expressed surprise that despite both the Nigerian Mission and UBA operating in the city for more than 42 years, no official banking relationship had been established.
Speaking during the meeting, Ibrahim said he discovered the situation while reviewing the Mission’s financial records with the Financial Attaché.
“Let me thank you for taking the time to come and see me. While reviewing our account, I asked the Financial Attaché if he was aware that UBA is here in New York, and he confirmed he was,” he said.
“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.”
The envoy stressed that President Bola Tinubu would expect stronger partnerships between public institutions and Nigerian-owned businesses operating internationally.
“I need to address this unacceptable situation because President Bola Tinubu would not be pleased if, after some days of resumption, I cannot facilitate a partnership between the Nigerian government and the private sector for collaborative results,” Ibrahim stated.
“Therefore, within seven days, the Financial Attaché must open an account with you.”
He also encouraged Nigerian businesses abroad to work more closely with the Nigerian Mission in New York, noting that the Mission House belongs to all Nigerians and should serve as a platform for investment opportunities and business collaboration.
Responding, UBA New York Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Osilama Idokogi, commended Ibrahim for what he described as patriotism and commitment to promoting Nigerian institutions on the global stage.
Idokogi said the bank would be pleased to begin formal banking relations with the Nigerian Mission after years of unsuccessful attempts to establish such a partnership.
The Nigerian envoy further noted that opening the account would enhance transparency, accountability, and improve support for government agencies whenever necessary.
