By Ada Nkong
President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians in diaspora to contribute their experience and resources towards the growth and development of Nigeria.
The President who was represented by the Secretary to the government of the federation Senator George Akume made the call during the 2024 diaspora day celebration at the presidential villa in Abuja.
While appreciating them for diaspora remittances which according to him,had shown a monthly increase between May and now, he attributed the growth to the trust in the policies and programs of the present administration. He further gave assurance that the outcome of the two day deliberations would be used in policy formation
Speaking at the event, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) called for synergy between Nigerians both at home and abroad to build a better Nigeria.
Commenting on the NDD 2024 theme: JAPA Phenomena and Its Implications for National Development, she appealed to Nigerians who want to migrate to follow the proper channels to avoid problems. According to her,with the numerical and professional strength of Nigerians living abroad, working together will improve the lots of Nigeria and Nigerians.
“While migration can offer immense opportunities, it is crucial to ensure that Nigerians do not find themselves in precarious situations. The theme this year reminds us to balance the aspirations of individuals with the broader national interest.”
She emphasised the integral role of the Nigerian diaspora in national development, adding that “We cannot talk about development without Diasporans”.
“Nigerians are resourceful, productive, energetic, and resilient, contributing significantly to economies worldwide. However, there is no point in migrating if you end up in trouble, “she stressed.
Dabiri-Erewa recalled that since the establishment of the Commission five years ago, NiDCOM has organised numerous significant events aimed at engaging the diaspora community and fostering national development.
She listed some of the events as the Annual Diaspora Day, celebrated every July 25, and the National Diaspora Merit Award Ceremony, Diaspora National Housing Fund (NHF) Mortgage, the Africa Diaspora Resource Research Centre, the Diaspora Quarterly Lecture Series, the Returnee Intervention Program, the Badagry Door of Return event in October, and the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS) in November.
According to her, “these events foster deeper connections and celebrate the achievements of Nigerians abroad, aiming to inspire the younger generation to make a positive impact.”
The NIDCOM Boss added that in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the Commission has also facilitated the establishment of Diaspora affairs in nine countries, with increased engagement with African Descendants in the Diaspora Union (AFRIDU).
She congratulated the recipients of the National Diaspora Merit Award 2024, praising them as trailblazers who have made remarkable contributions globally.
“Your achievements are a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of Nigerians everywhere.”
Dabiri-Erewa, however, called for greater support from the government in improving NiDCOM’s budgetary allocation and other challenges such as Diaspora voting and having a befitting office accommodation for the Commission, the Diaspora House.
She promised that the two-day event would be engaging and intellectually stimulating, encouraging all Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to work together and shun any act capable of dividing the country.
The speaker of the house of assembly Honorable Tajudeen Abass represented by his deputy Hon. Ben Kalu assured diasporians that the house is committed to their welfare and would enact laws that promote their ability to be part of nation building.
He said the bill for diaspora voting had passed first reading and had high prospects of scaling through.
The event which saw representatives of various Nigerians in diaspora organization from different countries with some Nigerians who are parliamentarians abroad had entertainment from Timi Dakola, OreOfe Sax and other cultural displays.
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