The 2024 edition of the National Diaspora Merit Award ceremony has been held in Abuja with a call on Nigerians in Diaspora to help drive innovation, share knowledge, and improve human capacity in the country for accelerated development of the country.
The call came from the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event.
The First Lady who noted the remarkable feats being achieved by Nigerians in Diaspora, urged the Commission not to limit its achievements to the Diaspora alone.
“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; and 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,” the First Lady said.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu noted that the awardees and all Nigerians in 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 endeavors are truly remarkable and a source of pride to us in Nigeria. I say well done,” she said.
The First Lady encouraged the Nigerians in Diaspora to continue to be an embodiment of the best Nigeria has to offer the world and described 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 of good luck and better things coming for the Diaspora,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
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 Diaspora.
