NAWM became official and held its first meeting in 2009

Before then, NAWM existed in the minds of a few friends (Nigerians) who would typically meet on weekends to hang out and have general discuss as far as how to better their lot in this foreign land, talk about events unfolding in back-home (Nigeria) and also how to meet other Nigerians that might reside in West Michigan.

Over time, the number of Nigerians at this meet up grew and with a common goal and determination, NAWM was formed. Some of those founding members are still a part of NAWM today.

Nigerian Association of West Michigan.

Anyone with a direct or indirect Nigerian Lineage and or anyone that loves what we do, aligns with our vision.

Direct Lineage implies that you were born in any part of Nigeria and or you are a child of someone who has ancestral ties to any part of Nigeria.

Indirect Lineage implies that you are a recognized spouse of anyone considered to have direct lineage

Yes

To organize Nigerians as a unified community within West Michigan, for the purposes of promoting Nigerian unity, education, health, culture and economic development

To provide and support development and humanitarian assistance to Nigerians and its friends whenever and wherever possible.

To promote and share the rich culture, tradition, history, and achievements of Nigerians through a variety of activities such as education, symposia, technology, music and arts.

To form alliance with other public and private foundations, agencies or organization in helping the less privileged members of our community.

NAWM members come from all walks of life and play active roles within our community across west Michigan. Across NAWM, we have professionals in the health, finance, engineering, accounting, information, education, security, consulting, public and private sectors to name a few

NAWM is an organization that welcomes all, we are a non-partisan, non-political, non-discriminating and all-inclusive organization. We offer a platform where each and every one of our members have a voice and can freely share their views and opinion even if in the minority because we believe that there is strength in diversity of people, thoughts and opinion.

We don’t pretend to be perfect and we continue to seek ways for continued improvements

Our association does not mandate obligations rather we encourage your active participation, contributions and support as it relates to pre-scheduled events.

For the continued sustenance of the association and in an effort to meet associations obligations (per our vision and constitution), All members typical contribute a monthly/annual membership due.

Additionally, we encourage members to attend our monthly general meeting and other events as member schedule permits.

“A man who calls his kinsmen to a feast does not do so to redeem them from starving. They all have food in their own houses. When we gather in the moonlight at village ground, it is not because of the moon. Every man can see it in his own compound. We come together because it is good for kinsmen to do so. Therefore, let us continue with the team spirit and enjoy the power of togetherness. Let’s smile not because we don’t have problems but because we are stronger than the problems….”  By CHINUA ACHEBE

NAWM is primarily focused on helping to build and foster a stronger Nigerian community across West Michigan. To this end, we fully support events and programs that are in line with our stated goals, objectives, missions and vision.

NAWM members have a givers mindset, always seeking ways to give back to our local communities across west Michigan and in Nigeria.

NAWM members are extremely responsive and generous to the needs of co-members and can even go as far as initiating various self-driven/funding programs to aid co-members during times of distress, discomforts and losses.

We pride ourselves as never being too engrossed about what the association can do for us individually but rather more focus is on what we can do for the association so NAWM can achieve its short- and long-term objectives.

We are fun loving group, always there for each other and desiring best for all members. We network, share ideas and help ourselves navigate the challenges of living life in the United States.

Come join us to learn more about this….

A copy of NAWM constitution is available here

Use the email, contact us form, and phone links at the NAWM website.

Additionally, we may be reached by regular mail by sending a note to: NAWM, P. O. Box 2743, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49501