The Nigeria-Canada Association in British Columbia (NCABC) has established itself as a pivotal entity in British Columbia since its founding in 1984, dedicated to enriching the lives of Nigerians and Canadians through a myriad of community-focused initiatives. This strategic plan is designed to steer the organization through the next five years, focusing on broadening our impact and improving our service offerings in an ever-changing societal context.

Our commitment remains to foster a robust exchange of culture, support the integration of new immigrants, and advance the well-being of our community members. As we advance, our objectives are to enhance our engagement efforts, expand our cultural and philanthropic activities, and build our capacity to better respond to our members’ needs.
This blueprint lays out our strategies for growth and sustainability, ensuring that NCABC remains a key pillar in promoting unity and cultural appreciation. It outlines our approach to overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities that will allow us to better serve our community and uphold our legacy of community service and cultural celebration.

The Nigeria-Canada Association in British Columbia (NCABC) was established in 1984 by a group of Nigerian students studying at the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, BCIT, and other colleges. Originally named the Nigeria Canada Development Association of British Columbia, the organization was founded as a platform for Nigerians to connect, socialize, and discuss global issues, including those affecting Nigeria. Dr. Godwin Eni, the first president, led the association through its early years, during which the membership was primarily composed of students. However, the transient nature of student life led to frequent turnover, and the association struggled to maintain stability.
By the early 1990s, the organization began to see a more stable and inclusive membership as it started to attract Nigerians and Nigerian-Canadians who were not solely students. This shift in demographics allowed the association to grow, and in 1990, it was officially registered as the Nigeria Cultural Association of British Columbia, with Mr. Emmanuel Onukwulu assuming the presidency. The association continued to evolve and was incorporated in 2000, further solidifying its presence within the community.

In the late 1990s, the association faced challenges such as dwindling membership, low community spirit, and internal conflicts. These issues, compounded by a lack of vision and resources, led to a period of stagnation. In response, Dr. Godwin Eni called a meeting in 1999 to address the organization’s difficulties and propose strategies for revitalization. Key recommendations from this meeting included changing the association’s name to the Nigeria-Canada Association of British Columbia to reflect a broader identity and inclusivity. Additionally, new committees were established to encourage grassroots participation and ensure member engagement. The association’s mission was expanded to better address the needs of its members, and a new constitution was ratified to implement these changes.

Over the years, the association continued to adapt, with further updates to its constitution and structure. The name was eventually changed to the Nigeria Canada Association of British Columbia to more accurately represent the organization’s focus. Under the leadership of Madam Comfort Ero from 2013 to 2017, efforts were made to establish a Nigerian House in BC, intended to serve as a hub for consular services, meetings, seminars, and community events.

Today, the NCABC remains dedicated to promoting the welfare of Nigerians and Canadians in British Columbia. With an estimated membership of over 18,000, the association continues to focus on cultural exchange, community involvement, and supporting new immigrants. Despite the challenges it has faced, the NCABC has evolved into a vibrant and resilient organization, continually adapting to meet the needs of its growing community.

To provide a forum in which Nigerian-Canadians and Canadians in British Columbia can interact, share knowledge, and promote cultural exchange among themselves.

The chronological order of its leadership of the Association to-date is:

1. Godwin Eni (President) (1984)
2. Captain Lucky Anako
3. Kayode Dawodu (President) (1985)
4. Emmanuel Onukwulu (President) (1990)
5. Rev. Paul Ndukwe (Interim Caretaker Committee Chairman)
6. Dr. Felix Ofulie
7. Wale Adeyinka (Chairman – 1999)
8. Ovie Mukoro (President – 2004)
9. Clifford Inimgba (President) (2004)
10. Bobby Osagie (Interim Caretaker Committee Chairman) (2005)
11. Emmanuel Onukwulu (President) (2006)
12. Ode Iweh (Interim Caretaker Committee Chairman) (2009)
13. Lewis Oladuntoye (Interim Caretaker Committee Chairman) (2011)
14. Md Comfort Ero (President)(2013)
15. Onyeka Dozie (President) (2017)

(History composed with the help of Mr. Emmanuel Onukwulu and Mr. Adewale Adeyinka)