The Federal Government has called on Nigerians living abroad to actively contribute to the country’s growth and development. This appeal was made by the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, during the 12th Convocation Lecture of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), held over the weekend in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
Delivering a lecture titled “Diaspora Engagements for National Development,” Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the importance of engaging Nigerians in the diaspora to support the nation’s sustainable development goals. She explained that NiDCOM, established in 2017, was created to facilitate diaspora engagement in national policies and projects, leveraging their human and material resources for the country’s progress.
She highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s approach to foreign policy, which prioritizes utilizing the Nigerian diaspora to strengthen bilateral relations with host countries and advance Nigeria’s development.
“This is a clarion call for Nigerians in the diaspora to collaborate with NiDCOM, either as individuals or groups, to complement the government’s efforts in achieving sustainable development,” Dabiri-Erewa said. “Nigerians at home and abroad must unite with a common purpose to build our nation. No foreigner will do this for us.”
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She also praised ABUAD for its collaborations with international institutions, particularly its exchange programs with foreign universities. She encouraged the university to establish a “Diaspora Centre of Excellence” that would focus on diaspora-related studies and research.
In his remarks, ABUAD founder, Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), commended Dabiri-Erewa for her insightful lecture and urged Nigerian youths to resist the urge to emigrate, known as the “japa” syndrome. He stressed the need for collective efforts to drive Nigeria’s growth and development.
