The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu has called on Nigerians in the diaspora to remember their motherland by being part of the nation’s developmental growth.
Mrs Tinubu gave this advice in her goodwill message at the 2024 National Diaspora Merit Award organised by Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), in Abuja
She commended NiDCOM for the numerous achievements recorded in the last five years of its establishment, under the leadership of its Director General, Hon.Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
She further commended NiDCOM for recognising and appreciating members of the Diaspora community who are more than 20 million in number.
‘The Nigerians in the Diaspora are united by a shared patriotism and love for their motherland. The world is our oyster but we must never forget our roots, that is what makes us who we are.
“Today, we honour your achievements, contributions and patriotism to our beloved nation. Your tenacity, hard work and accomplishments in various fields of endeavours are truly remarkable and a source of pride to us in Nigeria. I say well done.
“I must seize this opportunity to encourage you to continue to be a living embodiment of the best Nigeria has to offer the world, as you all, are our Ambassadors at large.
“Your success is not just personal, but a reflection on Nigeria’s collective image.The government cannot do it alone,.”
The first lady said that the joint effort of the diaspora community with the government can foster more achievement for the overall good of the society and benefit of the people.
“As we look to the future, our collective efforts across borders are necessary to drive innovation, share knowledge 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.
“Also, in these times of rapid change and technological advancements, your skills, talents, resources and global exposure are more essential than ever in rebuilding the Nigeria of our dreams.
“It is our joint responsibility to contribute to its progress, whether through Foreign Direct Investments (FDI), charitable endeavours, cultural preservation, amongst others.”
She congratulated all the awardees and charged other Nigerians in Diaspora to emulate the contributions and participation of the recipients.