The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) is calling on citizens both within the country and abroad to work alongside the federal government to promote sustainable development in Nigeria.
During a pre-convocation lecture titled “Diaspora Engagements for National Development” at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), NiDCOM chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the importance of this Partnership.
She encouraged Nigerians to participate either individually or collectively through various government initiatives.
“No foreigner will take on our developmental challenges if we, as a people, do not first rise to the occasion,” Mrs. Dabiri-Erewa stated. “The global exposure of Nigerians in the diaspora can serve as a powerful catalyst for our nation’s growth. This is not just a possibility; it is an objective that NiDCOM is committed to achieving.”
To initiate this collaboration, she proposed that ABUAD and the Nigerian diaspora work together on staff and student exchange programs, collaborative research addressing global challenges, and providing sabbaticals for Nigerian lecturers in the diaspora.
Mrs. Dabiri-Erewa also highlighted several challenges facing the commission, including insufficient funding due to limited budget allocations, inadequate accommodation for NiDCOM staff, and a significant trust deficit between Nigerians in the diaspora and their counterparts in Nigeria, as well as the government.
Afe Babalola (SAN), the founder of the university, praised Mrs. Dabiri-Erewa, describing her as a talented young Nigerian worthy of recognition.
He noted that her accomplishments have positioned her among Nigeria’s prominent figures.
“It may not be easy, but we can make significant progress if we unite with a common purpose to develop Nigeria,” Mr. Babalola remarked.
