The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.), has called for stronger collaboration between government institutions and Nigerians in the diaspora to promote national unity, security, and leadership development.
General Musa made this call while receiving the International Mentoring Commandant and Ambassador, Alistair, of the Nationals in Diaspora Mentoring Corp (NIDMECORP), during a courtesy visit in Abuja.
The meeting focused on the contributions of Nigerians abroad to national development, security awareness, leadership capacity building, and Nigeria’s participation in global policy and investment discussions.
Speaking during the engagement, Ambassador Alistair said Nigerians in the diaspora remain committed to the country’s progress and stability. He noted that diaspora communities aspire to a secure, inclusive, and globally respected Nigeria.
He explained that as many Western nations adopt inward-looking policies, it has become imperative for Nigeria to strengthen internal cohesion while leveraging its diaspora for advocacy, skills transfer, mentoring, and international engagement.
Ambassador Alistair further described NIDMECORP as an international organisation dedicated to mentoring, training, and advocacy, with a focus on promoting responsible and values-driven leadership.
In his response, General Musa expressed appreciation to the delegation for the visit and for sharing international perspectives. He stressed that Nigeria belongs to all its citizens and that unity remains a cornerstone of national security and sustainable development.
The Defence Minister noted that security goes beyond the protection of lives and property, adding that it also involves creating a stable environment conducive to local and foreign investment. He emphasised the role of effective leadership in fostering stability, cohesion, and public confidence.
He also highlighted the need for greater unity and coordinated leadership across Africa, observing that fragmented strategies often hinder progress and weaken the continent’s competitiveness in the global economy.
Both parties agreed on the need for sustained engagement between government agencies and diaspora-led organisations, describing nation-building as a collective responsibility that requires cooperation beyond national borders.
The visit ended with a commitment to maintain continuous dialogue on how Nigerians in the diaspora can further support national unity, security, and leadership development initiatives.
