Buhari commends Nigerians in Diaspora for their contributions

By Ibiyemi Mathew

President Muhammadu Buhari has commended Nigerians in the Diaspora for their contributions to nation building.

Speaking at the 2022 National Diaspora day celebrations in Abuja, he commended Nigerians in diaspora for being worthy representatives of Nigeria in their various host countries.

Buhari, who was represented by Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, his Chief of Staff , described the celebration as a recognition of the contributions of Nigerians in Diaspora to national development.

According to Buhari, “this year’s theme, Diaspora Engagement in a Globally Challenging Time for National Development “is apt, considering our experiences with COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing Russian-Ukraine war and the general insecurity, which we are experiencing not only in Nigeria but across the globe.”

The President also commended NiDCOM for organising laudable programmes for Nigerians in Diaspora, which he believes “will have considerable impacts on our economy for sustainable development.”

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman/CEO Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) in her opening address described the event as a platform for critical discussion, engagements and solutions.

She reiterated the fact that there is so much good news about Nigeria and Nigerians in the diaspora that needs to be celebrated.

“In spite of the challenging times, the Nigerians in Diaspora are participating in various investments that are contributing to development in Nigeria”, she stressed.

“The success stories of our Diaspora has led to some African countries visiting Nigeria to learn how to associate and manage their Diaspora globally bearing in mind the huge potential of the Diaspora and the impact of their remittances to the economy of their country, the NIDCOM boss added.

Dr. Amina Muhammad, Deputy Secretary General, United Nations in a solidarity message called on Nigerian Youths to be inspired by the successes of the Diaspora.

“The Diaspora example should instill in the millions of young Nigerians that they have the talent to change, both Nigeria and the world.”

She described the Diaspora as worth more than the billions of Naira they sent home as remittances.

She also commended the President for inaugurating National Diaspora Policy and approving the Diaspora Investment Trust Fund to mention a few.