Press Release
May 23, 2026
The Nigerian Canadian community in Edmonton continues to grow in strength, visibility, and impact — and now, several respected community leaders are taking another important step toward shaping Alberta’s future.
The Nigerian Canadian Association of Edmonton (NCAE) has been informed that four distinguished members of our community have expressed their intention to seek election to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta in the 2027 provincial election.
While NCAE remains a non-partisan organization and does not endorse political parties or candidates, we strongly believe in encouraging civic participation and active engagement in the democratic process. Strong communities are built when people not only contribute socially and economically but also participate in the systems that influence decisions and shape public policy.
Representation matters.
As our community continues to make meaningful contributions across Alberta, having voices from our community at decision-making tables creates opportunities for broader perspectives and stronger engagement. Representation across different levels and sides of the political landscape helps ensure our experiences and contributions are visible and considered.
Today, the broader African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) community has three Members of the Legislative Assembly, forming Alberta’s first Black caucus. As our communities continue to grow, many believe there is room for even broader representation across both government and opposition spaces.
We are pleased to highlight four respected members of the Nigerian community who have indicated interest in seeking public office.
Professor Tope Oriola — Edmonton Riverside
Professor Tope Oriola intends to seek nomination in the Edmonton Riverside riding. However, with current electoral boundary redistribution taking place, complete information regarding the final communities within this riding is still being clarified.
As further details become available, updated information will be shared with the community.
Dr. Collins Ugochukwu — Edmonton South
Dr. Collins Ugochukwu is preparing to run in Edmonton South.
Communities currently included within Edmonton South include: Allard, Blackburn, Blackburne, Blackmud Creek, Callaghan, Cashman, Cavanagh, Chappelle Gardens, Creekwood Chappelle, Desrochers, Ellerslie Industrial, Graydon Hill, Hays Ridge, Heritage Valley, Jagare Ridge, MacEwan, Mactaggart, Magrath Heights, Richford, and Rutherford.
Engr. Okwuchi Nnani — Edmonton-Decore
Engr. Okwuchi Nnani has expressed interest in representing Edmonton-Decore.
Communities within this riding include: Kildare, Killarney, Northmount, Evansdale, Delwood, Glengarry, Balwin, Belle Rive, and Mayliewan.
Mr. Chidi Iwuchukwu — Edmonton Southwest
Mr. Chidi Iwuchukwu is preparing to run in Edmonton Southwest.
Communities in this riding include: The Hamptons, Edgemont, Rivers Edge, Uplands, Stillwater, Glastonbury, Granville, Cameron Heights, Wedgewood, Windermere (including River Valley Windermere), Ambleside, Keswick, Keswick on the River, Glenridding Ravine, Glenridding Heights, Riverview, and Jamieson Place.
How Community Members Can Support
At this stage of the process, the candidates are encouraging residents who live within their respective ridings to consider becoming members of the political parties through which they intend to seek nomination.
Party membership numbers often play an important role in nomination processes and can help demonstrate local support. Membership costs are typically modest, approximately $10 annually.
Community members are encouraged to check whether they reside within any of the listed ridings and consider becoming involved where appropriate.
NCAE will continue sharing additional updates and information regarding these candidates and their journeys in future communications.
We congratulate these leaders for stepping forward and wish them success as they pursue opportunities to serve the people of Alberta.
Our community grows stronger when members choose to lead, participate, and contribute.
Signed
Nigerian Canadian Association of Edmonton (NCAE)
