By Omoyeni Ojeifo
The Federal Government has urged Nigerians living abroad to deploy their expertise, investments, networks and global experience towards advancing Nigeria’s development.
Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, made the call at a Town Hall Meeting with Nigerians in the Diaspora in New York, held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, on Wednesday.
The meeting, attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, focused on strengthening engagement with Nigerians abroad and harnessing their contributions to Nigeria’s development.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu in a statement emailed to PersecondNews on Thursday by Dr. Magnus Eze, Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, described Nigerians in the Diaspora as indispensable partners in the country’s development.
She urged them to contribute through investment, innovation, knowledge transfer, mentorship and international business linkages.
“Nigerians abroad are more than a source of remittances. You are professionals, entrepreneurs, academics, innovators and important bridges between Nigeria and the international community,” she stated.
The Minister explained that the Diaspora remains an important pillar of Nigeria’s foreign policy and should be treated as strategic partners rather than solely as contributors of remittances.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Citizens Diplomacy, with citizens placed at the centre of Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu implored Nigerian Embassies, High Commissions and Consulates to remain accessible and responsive to Nigerians abroad, particularly in providing legitimate consular assistance.
“The welfare of Nigerians abroad must remain a priority. Our Missions must listen, engage and assist our citizens within the limits of international law and the laws of host countries.”
She also advised Nigerians in the Diaspora to reciprocate by respecting the laws of their host countries and upholding the dignity and good name of Nigeria.
The Minister encouraged Nigerians abroad to mentor young Nigerians, support innovation, build partnerships with Nigerian institutions and connect Nigerian businesses and entrepreneurs to international markets.
“Your knowledge and international exposure are invaluable assets to our country. We want a stronger partnership with our Diaspora.”
According to her, the presence of Vice President Shettima, underscored the importance the Federal Government attaches to Nigerians abroad, including their welfare, concerns and contributions to national development.
She described the Town Hall as part of the government’s continuing dialogue with Nigerians in the Diaspora, maintaining that effective engagement must be based on trust, openness and sustained communication.
“The Foreign Affairs Ministry would work with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, diplomatic missions and other relevant institutions to strengthen engagement and advance the legitimate interests of Nigerians abroad,” she noted.
“Wherever you may reside, Nigeria remains our common heritage. Distance does not diminish citizenship. Where there are challenges, let us work together to address them; where there are opportunities, let us seize them together,”she added.
The Minister further highlighted the wider role of Nigerians abroad in shaping Nigeria’s international representation, pointing to the influence of their achievements, professionalism and conduct on the country’s global standing.
“Nigeria is represented internationally not only by its diplomats, but also by millions of Nigerians whose achievements, professionalism and character speak for our nation every day.”
Odumegwu-Ojukwu reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Diaspora engagement, consular support and opportunities for Nigerians abroad to contribute to national development.
“You are an important part of Nigeria’s story, and you are indispensable to Nigeria’s future.”