Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has advised Nigerian youths to embrace hard work, discipline, and dignity as core values that pave the way to lasting success.
She gave this charge during Day Two of the 2025 National Diaspora Day Youth Empowerment Summit held in Abuja, where she shared her personal journey from journalism into national leadership.
“As a journalist at NTA, I did my job well and was proud of it. That hard work got me nominated for a Harvard course, thanks to Rev. Father Kukah. Though the fee was $10,000, Arcor Group sponsored me. That changed my life,” she recalled.
Following the Harvard experience, Dabiri-Erewa transitioned from journalism to politics, eventually serving for 12 years in the House of Representatives. She later became the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Diaspora Affairs and currently heads NiDCOM.
“My hard work earned me respect. Wherever you are, work hard and carry yourself with dignity,” she urged the young participants.
Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, also addressed the summit, commended Dabiri-Erewa for consistently involving the youth in national conversations. He emphasized that “commitment is the key to success”, encouraging young Nigerians to stay focused and believe in their potential.
Echoing similar sentiments, Hon. Bobby Digi-Olisa, a New York-based Diaspora leader, urged youths to know themselves and take bold, purposeful steps in life.
Prof. Fene Osakwe advised participants to always uphold Nigeria’s image, regardless of where they find themselves across the globe.
On the subject of migration, Mr. Alex Oturu from the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), warned against overstaying visas and ignoring travel regulations, stressing that such actions can render one an irregular migrant. He also highlighted the dangers of human trafficking.
Also speaking at the summit, Ms. Pelumi Nubi, the adventurer who famously drove from London to Lagos, encouraged youths to dream big despite challenges. “Start with what you have and trust yourself,” she said.
Miss Diaspora Nigeria-USA, Oyemen Ehikhamhen, shared how engaging in the arts gave her confidence and a sense of purpose. “My crown is not just beauty it’s a symbol of power and storytelling,” she said.
As part of the empowerment drive, twelve students received laptops, including six science students sponsored by ARCOR Group. Additionally, six desktops were donated to selected schools, while others won laptops through a raffle draw.
The summit, which is part of the broader activities to commemorate National Diaspora Day 2025, continues to inspire Nigerian youths to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to national development both at home and in the diaspora.
