The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has said it is closely monitoring the recent unrest in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and is taking steps to safeguard the welfare of Nigerians in the area while urging calm and peaceful coexistence among all residents.
NIDCOM Chairman/CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said the Commission was concerned about reports of disturbances affecting parts of the Belfast community and emphasized the need for dialogue, restraint and mutual respect.
In a statement issued by the Commission’s Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the Commission expressed sympathy with individuals and families affected by the unrest.
“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 said.
The Commission stressed the importance of maintaining law and order during the sensitive period and urged residents to avoid actions or statements capable of escalating tensions.
NIDCOM also acknowledged the efforts of community leaders and organisations working to promote unity and understanding across different groups. It particularly commended appeals encouraging cooperation with law enforcement agencies and initiatives aimed at preventing further divisions within the community.
The Commission cited comments made during a recent BBC interview by Nigerian community leader, Jahswill Emmanuel, who expressed sadness over the situation and extended condolences to victims and their families.
Emmanuel said migrant communities, including Nigerians, remained committed to making positive contributions to Northern Ireland and called for collective efforts to preserve stability.
He urged residents to stand with those affected by the disturbances while working together to prevent further escalation. According to him, isolated incidents should not be allowed to undermine the unity and cooperation that exist among diverse communities.
NIDCOM reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the safety, dignity and welfare of Nigerians living abroad and pledged to continue engaging relevant stakeholders as it monitor developments in Belfast.
The Commission further encouraged Nigerians and other residents to remain law-abiding and continue promoting peaceful coexistence, understanding and mutual respect. It assured that it would maintain close observation of the situation in the interest of Nigerians in the diaspora.
