The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has charged graduates of Lagos State University (LASU) to embrace excellence, make meaningful impact and remain connected to Nigeria as they begin the next phase of their lives.
Dabiri-Erewa gave the charge on Tuesday in Lagos while delivering the convocation lecture at the university’s 29th and 30th Convocation Ceremonies.
The lecture was titled, “From LASU to the World: Harnessing the Nigerian Diaspora as the 7th Region for National Development.”
She urged the graduates to take advantage of opportunities abroad to acquire knowledge, build professional networks and gain experiences that could be deployed to support Nigeria’s development.
Dabiri-Erewa described Nigerians living outside the country as Nigeria’s “7th Region”, saying the diaspora community possesses enormous human capital, expertise, investments and global connections that could be harnessed for national growth.
She said the increasing presence of Nigerians across the world presented opportunities for the country, particularly through knowledge transfer, innovation, investments, mentorship and strategic partnerships.
According to her, the graduates should not view success solely in terms of personal achievements, but should also consider the difference they can make in their communities and the country at large.
The NiDCOM boss, who was awarded an honorary doctorate degree by LASU in 2023, urged the graduates to uphold their Nigerian identity and serve as worthy ambassadors of the country wherever they find themselves.
She challenged them to “be useful, visible and Nigerian,” stressing the importance of remaining relevant and contributing positively to society.
Dabiri-Erewa further encouraged the graduates to use their skills and networks to create opportunities for others and contribute to nation-building, whether within Nigeria or in the diaspora.
She urged them to remember their roots, maintain their connection with Nigeria and make giving back to the country part of their journey.
The statement was signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director, Media, Public Relations and Protocols, NiDCOM.