The 2024 edition of the National Diaspora Merit Award ceremony was held in Abuja, featuring a call to Nigerians in the Diaspora to drive innovation, share knowledge, and improve human capacity for the country’s accelerated development.
The call was made by the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event.
The First Lady, noting the remarkable achievements of Nigerians in the Diaspora, urged them not to limit their accomplishments to foreign lands alone.
She stated, “The Government cannot do it alone. As we look forward to the future, our collective efforts across borders are necessary to drive innovation, share knowledge, experience, and improve our human capital for shared prosperity.”
“Therefore, I urge you not to relent in your efforts to continue to positively put the flag of Nigeria on the world map at all times in everything you do. You should not forget home. It is our joint responsibility to contribute to national progress through Foreign Direct Investments (FDI), charitable endeavors, cultural preservation, amongst others.”
Senator Oluremi Tinubu emphasized that the awardees and all Nigerians in the Diaspora have the world as their oyster, urging them not to forget their roots. “Today, we honour your achievements, contributions, and patriotism to our beloved nation. Your tenacity, hard work, and accomplishments in various fields of endeavor are truly remarkable and a source of pride to us in Nigeria. I say well done.”
The First Lady encouraged Nigerians in the Diaspora to continue being embodiments of the best Nigeria has to offer the world, describing them as Nigeria’s ambassadors at large.
Earlier in her remarks, the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, assured the Diaspora community of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians at home and abroad. “Let us remain united. If you bring down Nigeria, you are bringing down yourself. Today is a testament to good luck and better things coming for the Diaspora.”
Twenty Nigerians in the Diaspora were presented with awards in various categories, while four were given Special Recognition Awards, including the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, himself once a Nigerian in the Diaspora.
