NAUS hails 14 Diaspora Nigerians elected in U.S. Midterms

By Isa Isawade

The National Association of University Students (NAUS), National Headquarters, has congratulated fourteen Nigerians in the diaspora who won seats in the United States midterm elections held on November 3, 2026, securing positions in state legislatures and local government across several states.

In a statement signed by its Deputy National President for National and Campus Affairs, Dist. Comr. Joseph Olamilekan Yenax, the association described the victories as “not just personal achievements” but “a proud moment for Nigeria and a powerful message to every Nigerian student home and abroad — excellence has no border.”

The elected Nigerians include Segun Adeyina (Georgia State House, District 110), Solomon Adesanya (Georgia State House, District 43), Will Jawando (Montgomery County Executive, Maryland), Esther Agbaje (Minnesota State House, District 59B), Ukeme Awakessien Jeter (Ohio State House, District 7), Junior Ezeonu (Texas State House, District 101) and Olaleye Onikuyide (Connecticut State House, District 19).

Others are Gabe Okoye (Georgia State House, District 102), Phil Olaleye (Georgia State House, District 59), Justin Onwenu (Michigan State Senate, District 1), Janelle Anyanonu (New Mexico State House, District 19), Carol Kazeem (Pennsylvania State House, District 159), Odus Evbagharu (Texas State House, District 135) and Dr. Oye Owolewa (Washington, DC, Council At Large).

Addressing Nigerian students abroad, NAUS urged them not to limit their ambitions. “This is your time. Do not limit your dreams. Study hard, get involved, lead boldly, and represent Nigeria with pride wherever you find yourself. If they could do it, you can do it too,” the statement read.

The association concluded: “NAUS celebrates you all. Nigeria is proud of you. Congratulations once again!”

The victories add to a growing record of Nigerian-born politicians winning elective offices across the United States, a trend that has drawn praise from Nigerian civic groups as evidence of the community’s growing political influence abroad.