HAPPY 62ND BIRTHDAY TO HON. DR. ABIKE DABIRI-EREWA, OON
By Akinsola Akinboye
Happy 62nd birthday to an extraordinary woman! Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Mama Diaspora, Mother Teresa, the Ace Journalist, and so much more.
Today, I join millions of people in celebrating not only this remarkable milestone but also the unwavering love and dedication you have shown to those around you and to your country throughout your life. Your deep patriotism and steadfast commitment to the betterment of Nigeria is truly inspiring.
You are a Nigerian Amazon—an exceptionally brilliant broadcaster who transitioned into an equally brilliant parliamentarian. A leader who is worthy, compassionate, fair, firm, respected, and courageous. You are fondly called “Mother Teresa of the Tube” for your compassion for the less privileged, and today, you are revered as “Lady Diaspora” for your pioneering efforts to place Diaspora Affairs on the global stage.
Your 15 years of meritorious service at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) are unforgettable, where you skillfully used journalism to bring solace to millions, especially children, women, and the marginalized. We will forever remember stories like that of Mary, the miracle baby, and the heart-wrenching investigation of a girl claimed by three mothers—an investigation that you pursued tirelessly for eight years until it reached a fair resolution.
The way you care for people, going above and beyond to solve issues that often seem insurmountable, is simply incredible. You work round the clock as if you were superhuman—perhaps, in some ways, you are!
When people say angels walk among us, you are a living embodiment of that belief. You radiate selflessness, humility, and courage, touching lives in ways that are immeasurable.
It has been an honor to work with you over the years. You have been a guiding light, instilling in us the values of love for our land, culture, and heritage. Your passion for Nigeria has been infectious, and we are deeply grateful for the pride and love you have shared with us all.
Your unwavering support, encouragement, and guidance are unparalleled. Your dedication to improving our nation has inspired countless others to work toward a brighter future.
Today, we celebrate and honor you, Mama Diaspora, for your unwavering commitment, your exceptional achievements, and the profound positive influence you’ve had on our lives. Your indomitable spirit and determination stand as a testament to the power of standing up for what you believe in.
**Some of the many notable achievements of Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa** include:
– Educate Africa Institute (EAI) Merit Award, 2021
– Centre for Ethics and Self-Value Orientation Award as Integrity Icon of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 2021
– FOI Award of Excellence, 2021
– Ansar-ud-deen Youth Association (ADYAN) Northern States Council Congress Merit Award, 2021
– Global Excellence Award by Afroglobal Television, Toronto, Canada
– The 2021 NEWS DIRECT Award of Excellence for Exemplary Leadership by News Direct Newspaper
– The Most Outstanding Female-led Head of a Government Federal Agency, The Guardian Women’s Day Summit, 2021
– Royal Award by the Ayangburen of Ikorodu Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi
– Award of Excellence by His Excellency, Dr. Benson Alfred Bana, the Tanzania Ambassador to Nigeria, 2021
– Induction into the Center for Black and African Arts and Civilisation’s (CBAAC) Black and African Hall of Fame, 2021
– The Guardian’s Award for the ‘Most Outstanding Female-led Federal Commission’, 2021
– The Frontline Defender Award for Human Rights and Sustainable Development by Drum Major of Social Justice and Awards, 2021
– Listed among “50 Women We Admire: Titans of Our Time” by ThisDay Style Magazine (Mother’s Day Edition 2021)
– Donald M. Payne (US House of Reps) Award and Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition
– Most Productive Female Representative of the Year 2010 by Igbogbo Community in Ikorodu
– African Parliamentary Award, Committee Chairman of the Decade, 2010
– Catholic Youths Organisation of Nigeria (CYON), Garki Deanery Award, 2010
– First National Waves Gold Award for Achievers as the Best House of Rep Member of the Year, 2008
– Visionary Award of Excellence, African Industrial and Development Award 2024
– Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS)
– 2023 Excellence in Service Award by Champion Newspaper
As the NiDCOM Chairman/CEO, I have witnessed firsthand your ability to execute important tasks with minimal resources and zero budget. Despite the challenges, you never complained. I remember how, in your first year in office, you even used your private car to get things done. You have worked tirelessly to project Nigeria’s image with integrity and transparency. Your relentless advocacy for justice and fairness for Nigerians abroad has not gone unnoticed—both within Nigeria and globally.
Even amidst your busy national and international schedule, you are always quick to respond to humanitarian crises. Under your leadership, NIDCOM has successfully carried out numerous evacuations of stranded Nigerians from countries such as Libya, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Egypt, South Africa, Turkey, Ukraine, and Sudan. Just yesterday, on October 10th, you were actively involved in a meeting to discuss rescuing over 30 Nigerians in the Czech Republic, as well as investigating the arrest of Nigerians in Cyprus (the “Happie boys”).
Through your impactful leadership, NIDCOM has become an institution that Nigerians are proud of. You have rescued citizens from death row and provided relief to those in distress. You are a beacon of hope for all Nigerians, whether at home or abroad.
I personally recall your swift response to a situation where we were recovering a stolen Prado Jeep in Niger Republic, which was eventually sold in Ghana. Despite the late hour, you remained attentive to our safety and operations. You are a true leader—working hand-in-hand with your team to achieve the best possible outcomes.
As you celebrate this special day, may it be filled with love, joy, and fulfillment. May you continue to be a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who are privileged to know you. We are proud to call you our godmother and are immensely grateful for your presence in our lives.
Wishing you a very happy 62nd birthday and many more years of health, happiness, and success.
With heartfelt wishes,
Akinsola Akinboye
Abuja
