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Nigeria through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has said it is closely monitoring the recent unrest in Belfast, Northern Ireland, urging Nigerians and other residents to remain law-abiding and work towards promoting peace, dialogue and mutual respect.
The Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, expressed concern over reports of disturbances and isolated incidents in parts of Belfast, saying such developments should not be allowed to create divisions within communities.
“Whenever communities experience moments of tension, it is important that we do not allow isolated incidents to divide us, but rather strengthen our commitment to peace, dialogue, and mutual respect,” Dabiri-Erewa stated.
According to a statement issued by the Commission's Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Mr. Abdur-Rahman Balogun, on Wednesday, NIDCOM extended its thoughts and sympathies to individuals and families affected by the disturbances and stressed the importance of restraint, understanding and adherence to law and order.
The Commission noted that periods of social tension require collective responsibility from all stakeholders, including community leaders, residents and public institutions, to prevent escalation and preserve social harmony.
NIDCOM also acknowledged the efforts of community leaders and organisations in Northern Ireland who are working to promote unity, understanding and responsible engagement among different groups.
The Commission particularly commended ongoing appeals encouraging residents to cooperate with law enforcement authorities and reject actions capable of deepening divisions within the community.
In a recent interview with the BBC, a prominent Nigerian community leader in Northern Ireland, Mr. Jahswill Emmanuel, founder of Multi-Ethnic Sports and Cultures Northern Ireland (MSCNI), described the situation as unfortunate and expressed solidarity with those affected.
“We are saddened by what has happened and our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time,” Emmanuel said.
He emphasized that migrant communities, including Nigerians, remain committed to making positive contributions to Northern Ireland and should continue to uphold values of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
“Isolated incidents should not be allowed to divide our communities. This is a time for unity, responsible engagement and cooperation with the authorities to ensure that tensions do not escalate further,” he stated.
Emmanuel further stressed the need for residents from all backgrounds to work together in maintaining stability and strengthening community relations.
NIDCOM reiterated its commitment to the safety, dignity and welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora, assuring that it would continue to monitor developments closely and engage relevant stakeholders where necessary.
The Commission urged Nigerians and other residents in Northern Ireland to avoid actions or statements capable of heightening tensions and instead support initiatives that encourage peaceful coexistence, understanding and respect for diversity.
“We urge all residents to remain law-abiding, support peace-building efforts and continue to foster mutual respect within their communities,” the Commission stated.
NIDCOM added that it would continue to follow the situation closely in the interest of Nigerians living in Northern Ireland and across the diaspora. :