Renowned Nigerian-American community leader, military chaplain, broadcaster, and author, Bishop (Col.) Paul N. Vincent, has called on Nigerians, Africans, and the broader immigrant community across Texas and the United States to rally behind his 2026 U.S Senatorial campaign.

Vincent, who is also the President/CEO of Persistence Works TV Network and Publisher of Persistence Works Magazine, is running as a Republican. He urged the African communities and the broader immigrant to offer their support, advocacy, and votes as he aims to make history in the U.S Senate.

Speaking at launch of campaign, which took place in Texas, bringing together members of the African diaspora community to show their support for his candidacy, he promised to bring about positive change, advocating for the rights of immigrants, promoting diversity, and supporting small businesses, a pledge that resonated with the community, who see him as a leader who can bring about real change.

“As an immigrant who has lived the American dream, I am committed to ensuring others have the same opportunities. My journey reflects the limitless possibilities available in this great nation, and I want to give back by serving Texans in the Senate,” he said.

From a humble beginning in Nigeria to a distinguished career in the U.S., Bishop Vincent has become a symbol of hard work, resilience, and faith. His strong leadership and commitment to social justice, makes many see his ambition and candidacy as a beacon of hope for the African diaspora community in Texas.

Poised to make a real difference in the lives of Texans, his campaign embodies and centers on defending the U.S. Constitution, safeguarding religious liberty, protecting the Second Amendment, and championing military and veteran welfare.

Bishop Vincent’s military career spans 16 years, during which he served as a chaplain in the U.S. Army Reserve and on active duty. He has earned numerous military honours, including the Army Commendation Medal, and made headlines for baptising 55 U.S. soldiers in the River Jordan during a deployment.

His achievements extend beyond the military, as he has authored 20 inspirational books, established a global TV network that reaches over 200 million viewers, and spearheaded numerous charitable initiatives that support communities in need. He is also a highly educated leader with five advanced degrees, including an Executive Master’s in Public Administration from Golden Gate University.

His campaign has struck a chord within the immigrant community, particularly among Nigerians and Africans, who see his candidacy as a testament to their contributions and potential in the U.S.

“This is a pivotal moment for Nigerians and Africans in the U.S. Bishop Vincent’s candidacy isn’t just about representation; it’s about giving a voice to our values and aspirations on a national stage. We must campaign, donate, and vote to ensure his victory,” said one supporter.

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has announced changes to its immigrant visa process, set to take effect on January 1, 2025.

In a statement shared on its official X page on Tuesday, the embassy revealed that applicants with scheduled interviews will now be required to visit the Consulate General in Lagos twice during the visa process.

The announcement read, “For applicants with interviews scheduled after January 1, 2025, you are required to visit the Consulate General in Lagos at least twice during the immigrant visa process.

“This new process is designed to help you prepare for your visa interview and to prevent significant delays in processing your immigrant visa.”

Details on the embassy’s website indicate that the first visit will be for an In-Person Document Review with a consular staff member.

The purpose of this review is to ensure that applicants have all the necessary documents prepared for their visa interviews.

The second visit will involve the visa interview with a Consular Officer. This interview will be scheduled by the National Visa Center (NVC).

The statement added: “This review ensures that applicants are prepared for their visa interviews.

“The review allows applicants to retrieve any missing documents ahead of their visa interviews, helping to avoid delays in application processing.

“The second interview, on the other hand, is with a Consular Officer. The date for this interview will be scheduled for applicants by the National Visa Center (NVC).

The embassy also cautioned applicants, stating, “If you do not complete the In-Person Document Review before your visa interview, you will be required to reschedule your appointment.”

According to news reports, the United Kingdom has granted approximately 300,000 new visas to Nigerians in the last two years, highlighting the growing ties between the two nations, according to the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery.