NiDCOM Announces National Diaspora Day Celebrations and Diaspora Merit Awards
Maryam Aminu
The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Dr Abike Dabiri-Erewa has addressed the media today regarding the upcoming National Diaspora Day Celebrations and the Diaspora Merit Awards for 2024.
This year’s theme, “Japa Phenomena and its Implications for National Development,” highlights the ongoing migration trends, particularly among Nigerian youths.
“Japa,” a Yoruba term meaning to flee or escape, has come to symbolize the increasing number of Nigerians seeking better opportunities abroad due to economic instability, security concerns, and inadequate living standards.
Dr. Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the impact of this trend on the nation’s human resources, noting the resulting decline in labor and productivity.
She also highlighted the positive contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora, who are making significant impacts and contributing to national development.
NiDCOM will host the second edition of the National Diaspora Merit Awards, celebrating Nigerians in various fields, including agriculture, business, health, leadership, philanthropy, sports, education, entertainment, technology, and industry.
She noted that the 2024 National Diaspora Day Celebrations will feature:
An opening ceremony with a special address by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,
discussions on the theme “Japa Phenomena and Its Implications for National Development.”
Also there will be goodwill messages from international organizations and partners involved in diaspora matters,
solidarity messages from prominent Nigerians at home and abroad.
Presentations on special diaspora projects by NiDCOM.
Others include presentations on investment project by diaspora community members in Nigeria, celebrity interviews with diaspora role models and the Home Strings Programme for the 2nd and 3rd generation of Nigerians in the diaspora.The National Diaspora Merit Awards 2024 and a dinner.
She disclosed that the events will be held at the State House Conference Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja.
She hinted that the National Diaspora Day celebrations will take place on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at 2:00 PM (WAT), and the Diaspora Merit Awards will be on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 5:00 PM (WAT).
Dr. Dabiri-Erewa extended a special invitation to all as a guest at the National Diaspora Day 2024 celebrations.
NiDCOM Boss urged those planning to “japa” to ensure they follow legal processes and abide by the laws of their host countries, emphasizing their role as ambassadors of Nigeria
“May God bless us all, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
For further inquiries, she provided contact details for NiDCOM’s admin office and the Local Organizing Committee Chairman, Mr. Abiodun Akanbi.” Said NiDCOM Boss
**Contact:**
admin@nidcom.gov.ng
Mr. Abiodun Akanbi – +2347039266676 (Call/WhatsApp)
Event Registration: [nidcom.gov.ng/diasporaday2024](https://nidcom.gov.ng/diasporaday2024)
