The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has commended Dr. Philip Ozuah, a U.S.-based Nigerian medical expert and 1985 alumnus of the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan (CoMUI), for his generous donation of $1 million (₦1.6 billion) towards the construction of a student hostel at his alma mater.
Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who attended the inauguration of the six-block hostel project in Ibadan on Wednesday, described the gesture as a shining example of diaspora contribution to national development, particularly in the critical areas of healthcare and education.
“This is what diaspora engagement is all about giving back, strengthening institutions, and impacting lives,” Dabiri-Erewa said. “We are proud of Dr. Ozuah and urge other Nigerians in the diaspora to emulate his patriotic investment in our future.”
The NIDCOM boss also commended the UCH College of Medicine Class of 1985, which initiated the project, praising the spirit of collaboration between alumni and the diaspora community in addressing infrastructure gaps in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
Highlighting broader diaspora-led initiatives, Dabiri-Erewa noted that in the past four years, more than 10 medical facilities have been established across Nigeria by diaspora professionals. These include the recently commissioned African Medical Centre of Excellence in Abuja and several ongoing medical missions across the country.
“With better coordination and strategic partnerships, we can harness the vast expertise of our diaspora medical professionals to reverse the trend of medical tourism and build globally competitive health infrastructure at home,” she added.
Dr. Ozuah, who currently serves as President and CEO of Montefiore Medicine in New York, USA, is widely regarded for his leadership in healthcare and philanthropy. His donation is expected to significantly enhance student welfare and academic experience at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan.
NIDCOM reiterated its commitment to fostering stronger connections with Nigerians in the diaspora, championing policies and programs that encourage active involvement in national development.
