First Lady urges Nigerians in diaspora to drive innovation

By Kunle Sanni

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called on Nigerians living in the diaspora to engage more in driving innovations, sharing knowledge, and improving human capacity in the country for its accelerated development.

The First Lady made this appeal at the 2024 edition of the National Diaspora Merit Award ceremony held in Abuja, according to a statement by her spokesperson, Busola Kukoyi, on Saturday.

As the Special Guest of Honour at the event, Oluremi Tinubu acknowledged the remarkable achievements of Nigerians in the diaspora and urged them not to limit their successes to their host countries alone.

“The government cannot do it alone. As we look to the future, our collective efforts across borders are necessary to drive innovation, share knowledge and experience, and enhance our human capital for shared prosperity,” she said.

“I urge you not to relent in your efforts to continuously put Nigeria on the world map positively. Do not forget home. It is our joint responsibility to contribute to national progress through foreign direct investments, charitable endeavors, cultural preservation, among other means,” she added.

Oluremi Tinubu highlighted that the awardees and all Nigerians in the diaspora have the world as their oyster but should not forget their roots.

“Today, we honour your achievements, contributions, and patriotism to our beloved nation. Your tenacity, hard work, and accomplishments in various fields are truly remarkable and a source of pride for us in Nigeria. Well done,” she said.

The First Lady encouraged Nigerians in the diaspora to continue embodying the best of what Nigeria has to offer the world, describing them as the country’s ambassadors at large.

In her remarks, the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, assured the diaspora community of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians both 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,” she 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, who was once a Nigerian in the diaspora himself.