About CONI
A journey of one thousand miles usually begins with one step, the conception of CONI began in November, 2014 when a group of well-meaning families in this community gathered together somewhere in Eagle for the first time to bare their minds on several issues bogging our community.
It was indeed an emotional night for many who were present as a couple of people narrated their life experiences in Boise, Idaho, and the USA in general as they were let alone during the turbulent period. The group identified the missing link between people of the same background and culture as ‘Lack of Unity and a Common Front’ to channel our course and welfare. As the saying goes’ A creative man is motivated by the desire to achieve but not by desire to beat others’. The group noted the existence of several Nigerian associations in many states of the country with diverse functions [Political, Welfare, social-cultural, and so on]. A five-membered committee was nominated that night to look into the modalities necessary to form a united front for social, cultural, and welfare interactions between Nigerians and the rest of the community.
The committee members went straight to work between November 2014 and May/June 2015 holding several meetings, exchanging ideas, and sacrificing their time, money, and resources just because they believed in the unity and betterment of this community. My dear people, it does not matter how slow you go as long as you do not stop [confucius], with a new day comes new strength and new thought in the committee. After several back-and-forth deliberations, disagreements, and agreements, the committee came up with the name” COUNCIL OF NIGERIANS IN IDAHO” (C.O.N.I) and a great article of association that we can all be proud of today.
Our Vision / Mission
- To promote unity, accountability, trust, and a harmonious relationship among Nigerians in Idaho, and between all Nigerians and Non-Nigerians resident in the state of Idaho.
- To provide a mechanism for professional interaction and exchange of ideas among members through regular meetings, conferences, educational programs, and other activities that will have a positive impact on ourselves and our diverse communities.
Membership of the association is open to all Nigerians (birth, heritage or ancestry) and Non-Nigerians who demonstrate interest in becoming a member and pledge to abide by the Articles of CONI and all provisions contained therein.
About Nigeria
Nigeria is the most populous nation in Africa, with a population of over 182.2 million (World Bank, 2015). In the quest for knowledge, education, and business opportunities, Nigerians find themselves in many countries of the world, and many professions. Nigeria is also blessed with a diverse mix of cultures, languages, and ways of life.
C.O.N.I
Council of Nigerians in Idaho (CONI) is a non-profit organization registered under section 501c (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of United States of America. CONI does not debate, sponsor, or undertake political activity on behalf of itself or its members. Membership of the association is voluntary and limited as herein specified.
Nigeria America Relationship
Nigeria is the largest economy and most populous country in Africa, with an estimated population of more than 180 million and a gross domestic product of 510 billion USD in 2013. Although Nigeria’s economy has become more diversified, crude oil sales have continued to be the main source of export earnings and government revenues. Read More…