Twenty-five years after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has honoured the memory of Nigerians and persons of Nigerian origin who lost their lives in the tragedy.
Dabiri-Erewa, in a statement marking the 25th anniversary of the attacks, said the passage of time had not diminished the pain of losing loved ones, stressing that the victims’ stories must continue to be remembered and passed on to younger generations.
Among the Nigerians remembered were Godwin O. Ajala, Ignatius Udo Adanga, Olabisi Shadie Layeni-Yee, Sadie Ini Ette and Ayodeji Awe, whose lives were cut short in the attacks that shook the world on September 11, 2001.
The NiDCOM boss said behind the figures associated with the tragedy were individuals with families, careers, aspirations and dreams, urging continued remembrance of the lives they lived and the legacies they left behind.
“We remember them. We remember their families. We remember the lives they lived and the dreams they carried. Twenty-five years later, they are not forgotten. Their names remain, and their stories must continue to be told,” she said.
Dabiri-Erewa also noted that remembering the Nigerian victims reflected the far-reaching presence of Nigerians across the world and the enduring bonds they have established in communities where they live, work and contribute.
She reaffirmed NiDCOM’s commitment to recognising and honouring the lives, contributions and experiences of Nigerians in the diaspora, stressing that every Nigerian life matters, wherever they may be in the world.
While describing the anniversary as a painful reminder of the lives lost, she said remembrance should also provide an opportunity to celebrate the victims’ lives and legacies rather than allowing their stories to fade with time.
She offered prayers for the peaceful rest of the victims and for strength, comfort and healing for their families and loved ones who continue to bear the pain of their loss.
