THE HISTORY OF THE NIGERIAN ASSOCIATION OF LAS VEGAS (N.A.L.V.)
About 20 years, there were certain unexpected events that made us realize, that as a people of a common nationality descent, we were unable to individually or collectively respond to unpredictable events that had significant consequences and can be anticipated by retrospective explanation for example, the sudden death of a Nigerian far away from home. There was a sense of outrage and hopelessness that the status quo violates our value as a people and needed be met with immediate action.
Like- minded individuals gathered under the umbrella of “circle of friends” to address such issues, but it became evident that a larger umbrella was needed for Nigerians in Las Vegas. We needed leverage points to unstuck people to the next stage of group formation. One of the ideals was not only to start an organization, but to start one that will endure. Energy, effort and time was put in building the structure and culture of the organization while developing a strategy to sustain it into the future. The first meeting of the group of friends was held at John and Ogo Onyema’s residence and the following were in attendance:
- Charles Okeke
- Uche Amadi
- Chuka Ejiofor
- John Onyema
- Paul Ekwebelum
- Chidi Ebo
The second meeting with extended invitation was held at Dr. Ozobia’s residence. After multiple meetings and long hours of deliberation, the Nigerian Association of Las Vegas [NALV] was born. The result is a more effective coordination and communication within the Nigerian community, less stress for new entrants into the community, greater strategic response, success to events, including but not limited to, the promotion of the Nigerian culture as well as being able to celebrate our common values.
The Organization was based on nonpolitical and nonreligious principles with alignment to the community and environment while deemphasizing the multiethnic nature of Nigeria. The result was an organization comprised of all dialects of The Nigerian ethnicity.
There was a learning curve, as we struggled to build the structure, system, culture and strategy that would sustain the organization. We have had successive presidents (with the support of the Nigerian Community) since the birth of NALV that share the same core values of promoting and protecting the Nigerian heritage. The Organization continues to strive although we still have challenges of sustained membership, meeting place and financial viability. However, with each passing year NALV growing stronger with new ideas from the younger generation. We have learned to build relationships on experiences, instead of impressions.
It is with this foundation and strong leadership, that I see NALV progressing to the next level of establishing the Nigerian community as one of the pillars of Las Vegas and Nevada.
By: Dr. John Onyema
