The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has honoured 32 exceptional Nigerians in the diaspora, organisations and notable individuals with the 2026 National Diaspora Merit Awards for their outstanding contributions to national development and global excellence.
The awards were presented during the 2026 National Diaspora Day celebration in Abuja, where government officials, diplomats, development partners and members of the Nigerian diaspora gathered to celebrate the achievements of Nigerians making an impact across the world.
According to a statement signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Head, Media, Public Relations and Protocol Unit on Sunday, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), the awards recognise Nigerians abroad who have distinguished themselves professionally while contributing meaningfully to Nigeria's growth and international image.
Providing an overview of the awards, the Secretary to the Commission, Engr. (Dr.) Sule Yakubu Bassi, said the initiative was designed to celebrate Nigerians whose achievements continue to inspire confidence in the country's human capital.
He noted that the 2026 recipients were drawn from diverse sectors, including healthcare, education, science and technology, engineering, agriculture, finance, entrepreneurship, politics, media, sports, oil and gas, philanthropy and information and communication technology.
Bassi described the recipients as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria and urged them to remain committed to supporting national development despite living abroad.
"These awardees embody the resilience, innovation, excellence and patriotism that Nigerians are known for across the globe," he said.
He also encouraged other Nigerians in the diaspora to contribute their expertise, investments and experience towards Nigeria's development, stressing that sustainable national progress depends largely on the commitment of Nigerians themselves.
"No foreigner will develop Nigeria for Nigerians," Bassi added.
Representing the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, described Nigerians in the diaspora as critical partners in the country's development and stability.
She commended the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NiDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, for sustaining initiatives that recognise and celebrate Nigerians making significant contributions outside the country.
She congratulated the award recipients for their patriotism and selfless service, particularly their support for the Diaspora Health Initiative, which aligns with the 2026 National Diaspora Day focus on revitalising Nigeria's healthcare system.
Among those recognised were several diaspora medical associations for their contributions to healthcare delivery in Nigeria through the Diaspora Health Initiative. They include the Canadian Association of Nigerian Physicians and Dentists (CANPAD), Concerned Medics Foundation (CMF), Medical Association of Nigerians Across Great Britain (MANSAG), Nigerian Association of Medical Doctors Australia, Nigerian Doctors Forum–South Africa (NDF-SA), Nigerian Medical Association Germany (NMA-G) and DOWA.
The ceremony also honoured the memories of Prof. Bola Awotedu, Dr. Uzoma Nwaubani and Ms. Oghenetega Claire Inoni with posthumous awards for their lasting contributions to national development.
Distinguished Service Awards were presented to the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako; Hadiza Bala Usman; Haruna Kuje Anzaku; Lawal Akibu; Dr. Yakubu Gana; and Prof. Is-haq Oloyede for their exceptional commitment to public service and nation-building.
NiDCOM said the awards underscore its commitment to deepening engagement with Nigerians in the diaspora and recognising their investments, innovations, humanitarian efforts and professional accomplishments that continue to contribute to Nigeria's socio-economic development.