The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has charged Nigerian youths to embrace hard work, discipline, and dignity as pathways to personal and national development.
Speaking at the second day of the 2025 National Diaspora Day Youth Empowerment Summit in Abuja, Dabiri-Erewa recounted her journey from journalism to national leadership, attributing her rise to a consistent work ethic and a sense of purpose.
“As a journalist at NTA, I did my job well and was proud of it,” she said. “That hard work got me nominated for a Harvard course, thanks to Rev. Father Kukah. Though the fee was $10,000, the Arcor Group sponsored me. That opportunity changed my life.”
She went on to narrate how her Harvard experience propelled her from the Newsline programme on NTA into active politics, with the backing of Senator Remi Tinubu and eventual support from President Bola Tinubu, then Governor of Lagos State.
“I contested and won a seat in the House of Representatives, where I served for 12 years before being appointed as SSA on Diaspora and eventually heading NiDCOM,” she said. “My hard work earned me respect. Wherever you are, work hard and carry yourself with dignity.”
Also speaking at the summit, Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, commended Dabiri-Erewa for always prioritising youth engagement. “Commitment is the key to success,” he advised, encouraging Nigerian youths to remain focused and believe in themselves.
Diaspora leader, Hon. Bobby Digi-Olisa from New York, urged youths to understand their identity and take bold steps in life, while tech executive Prof. Fene Osakwe encouraged young Nigerians to always make the country proud wherever they are.
On the topic of migration, Alex Oturu of the National Commission for Refugees and Migration cautioned youths against overstaying visas or flouting immigration laws, warning of the risks of becoming irregular migrants and falling victim to human trafficking.
Pelumi Nubi, the UK-based adventurer who recently drove from London to Lagos, urged young people to “dream big despite challenges,” saying, “Start with what you have and trust yourself.”
Miss Diaspora Nigeria-USA, Oyemen Ehikhamhen, also addressed the gathering, sharing how artistic expression gave her direction and confidence. “My crown is not just about beauty — it’s a symbol of power and storytelling,” she said.
Highlighting the summit’s empowerment component, 12 students received laptops, while six top science students were sponsored by the Arcor Group. Additionally, six desktop computers were donated to selected schools, with other laptops won through raffle draws.
The summit, held as part of events marking this year’s National Diaspora Day, continues to spotlight youth innovation, resilience, and leadership potential across the globe.
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