A Nigerian professional based in the United States, Kelechi “PRagmatic” Iwuagwu, has added another milestone to his growing record of international advocacy after being selected to participate in the 2026 United Nations Association of the United States of America (UNA-USA) Advocacy Summit.
Iwuagwu was among only 133 advocates selected from across the United States through a highly competitive process to campaign for sustained American support for the United Nations and its humanitarian and development programmes.
The New York-based professional, who works as a Data Analyst and Life Safety Director at Warner Bros. Discovery’s corporate headquarters, joined fellow advocates in Washington, D.C., where they met with members of the U.S. Congress and Senate to push for continued bipartisan funding for key UN agencies.
The advocacy effort comes at a time when funding cuts are threatening several United Nations programmes that provide critical support to millions of vulnerable people around the world.
During the summit, participants received policy and advocacy training before heading to Capitol Hill to engage lawmakers on the importance of continued U.S. support for agencies such as UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNESCO and UN Peacekeeping operations.
For Iwuagwu, the opportunity was more than a personal achievement. It also reflected the growing contribution of Nigerians in the diaspora to global policy conversations and international development.
A strong advocate of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), he has continued to support initiatives that promote quality education, youth empowerment, gender equality, community development and global partnerships.
Speaking on the experience, Iwuagwu described his selection as both a privilege and a call to greater service.
“Being selected among just 133 advocates from across the United States was a privilege I do not take lightly,” he said.
“Standing on Capitol Hill and engaging with congressional offices on issues that affect millions of lives across the world reminded me that advocacy is not reserved for diplomats alone. Every informed citizen has the power—and the responsibility—to help shape a better future.”
His participation at the summit underscores the increasing role of Nigerian professionals abroad in influencing global conversations on peace, sustainable development and international cooperation.
