Okonjo-Iweala wants strategic diaspora engagement for nation building

Director General of World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has urged the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) to strengthen systematic mechanisms to attract second and third generation Nigerians in the diaspora to contribute towards nation building.

Okonjo-Iweala stated this when she was presented the Diaspora Icon award, a fall out of the recently held maiden National Diaspora Merit Award in Abuja.
She said the diaspora is capable of doing so much for Nigeria that goes beyond remittances, such as skills and knowledge transfer, especially as most countries of the world are fast embracing the technology and digital era.

On her recent recognition as Diaspora Icon, Okonjo-Iweala expressed pride for being a citizen of Nigeria, saying she was elated and humbled at being selected to receive the award.

She commended NiDCOM for the work it has been doing over the years in terms of diaspora engagement, under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer, AbikeDabiri-Erewa.

Okonjo-Iweala also expressed desire to work with the commission and the Federal Government for the betterment of all Nigerians. While presenting the award, the NiDCOM boss said the gesture was in acknowledgement of selfless service to Nigeria and humanity by the WTO Director General. Dabiri-Erewa remarked that Okonjo-Iweala is an inspiration to all Nigerian women seeking to balance family ties and career growth.

XThe Diaspora Icon award is one of the categories given at the National Diaspora Day celebrations and National Diaspora Merit Award, held on July 26, 2023.