Dr. Omotade Omotosho, a distinguished Nigerian based in Poland, was among the dignitaries honored at the 2024 National Diaspora Merit Awards held at the State House Auditorium, Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Dr. Omotosho, who completed his education in Nigeria, the United States, and the United Kingdom, has an impressive academic record. He is an accomplished professor, having taught at various institutions in the UK, Ireland, Italy, and Poland.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission awarded Dr. Omotosho the National Diaspora Merit Award 2024 for his significant contributions to philanthropy and his role as a model for other Nigerians in the diaspora.
A well-known philanthropist, Dr. Omotosho has initiated life-changing programs across Europe. During the Russian attack on Ukraine, he and his team at the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization were among the first responders at the Polish border, assisting the Nigerian embassy in the evacuation of Nigerian students fleeing the conflict.
Dr. Omotosho serves on the boards of the African University Fund Inc. and the European African Centre for Development. His leadership and philanthropic efforts have also seen him act as a consultant and advisor to the former Mayor of Kobylka, Poland, and the former Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Poland. He has played a vital role in strengthening Nigerian-Polish relations, organizing World War II anniversary commemorations in Poland, and honoring Mr. Agboola Brown, a Lagosian jazz musician who participated in the Warsaw Uprising.
Last year, Dr. Omotosho translated the Nigerian Constitution into Polish for the parliamentary library in Poland and is an active member of the Polish Volunteer Firefighters.
Dr. Omotosho’s dedication to service and leadership has earned him widespread recognition. Recently, he was nominated to contest in the Polish local government election held on April 8, 2024, making him the first Nigerian/African to run for office in the Mazowiecki province, Wolomin county of Poland, and one of the few Nigerians involved in Polish politics.
Dr. Omotosho is a beacon of hope among the young and talented Nigerian diaspora. His exceptional leadership and patriotism have positively impacted Nigerians living in Poland and Central Europe, making him a role model and highlighting Nigeria in a positive light.
