The Federal Government has called on Nigerians living abroad to return home and contribute to building a better Nigeria.
This appeal was made by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman of the Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission, during a lecture at the 12th convocation of Afe Babalola University in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the importance of Nigerians in the diaspora bringing back their experiences to help solve socio-economic challenges in the country. She said, “Nigerians abroad should bring back their experiences and help proffer solutions to the socio-economic challenges hampering Nigeria’s growth and development.”
She highlighted the need for collaboration between those at home and in the diaspora to develop Nigeria, stating, “No foreigners will leave their country to help develop others.” Dabiri-Erewa added that the global exposure and professional expertise of Nigerians abroad can serve as a catalyst for national growth.
She pointed out, “The NIDCOM is working to achieve this through the implementation of a supporting framework for facilitating diaspora engagement in national growth and development.”
Afe Babalola, the founder of the university, praised Dabiri-Erewa for her insightful lecture aimed at achieving sustainable development with the help of Nigerians in the diaspora. He encouraged Nigerians, especially the youth, to reconsider the idea of seeking better opportunities abroad.
Babalola said, “The country is blessed with both human and natural resources. Let me say that Africans are born to lead the world, and I don’t know what is happening to us here.” He further noted that the university has made significant contributions to the nation’s education and health sectors, leading to its recognition as one of the best in the country and the world.
“Our students are the best and are the next to make this country great,” he added.
