The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has honored 24 Nigerians living abroad for their significant contributions to national development.
Among the awardees at the 2nd Edition of the National Diaspora Merit Award 2024, held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, was the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Ali Pate.
The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, graced the event as the special guest of honor.
NiDCOM Chairman and CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, highlighted the remarkable achievements of Nigerians in the Diaspora. She emphasized that these accomplishments “must be intentionally noticed, recognized, and celebrated to encourage all Nigerians abroad to contribute to national development.”
Dabiri-Erewa explained that the award aims to acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of Nigerians in the Diaspora in fostering national growth.
“Contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora to national development are well documented
“ Over the years, they have contributed on the average of $20 billion as remittances.”
She said Nigeria in Diaspora also have investment in the various sectors of the economy, including agriculture, education, health, oil and gas, transportation, enterprise, services, sports.
Objectives of the National Diaspora Merit Award, she pointed out “ is to recognise and celebrate Nigerians in the diaspora who have made contributions to the development of Nigeria over a cumulative period of at least five years.
“To project them as diaspora champions and our role models for others in the community.
“To change the narratives of the image of Nigeria and Nigerians in the diaspora as our ambassadors have obliged.
