By Sarah NEGEDU
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has stressed the importance of harnessing the expertise and resources of Nigerians in Diaspora, so as to accelerate the development in the country.
According to the minister, the Diaspora community plays a pivotal role in shaping the development and progress of the nation, by bringing with them a wealth of resources such as knowledge, skills and finances which are critical to economic growth.
The minister stated this during the opening ceremony of one week ICT training organised by the Nigeria in Diaspora Organisation, NIDO, to celebrate the 2024 Diaspora week.
Represented at the event by the Secretary, Social Development Secretariat, Ibrahim Aminu, applauded the remarkable contributions of Nigerians in the Diaspora across various fields, noting that their contributions impact lives back home.
The minister urged Nigerians abroad to invest in infrastructural projects in Abuja, to enable the city compete favourably with its counterparts in other climes.
He said, “The Diaspora input and collaboration will no doubt be very critical in our determination to create a more vibrant and sustainable capital city that is comparable to world’s best capital cities in terms of infrastructure and service delivery.
“That is why it is imperative that we leverage on interconnectedness and build productive networks of all our Diaspora community to attract investor to partner with us in our quest for accelerated growth and progress.
“My sincere appeal to you all, our dear Diaspora brothers and sisters, is to invest in infrastructural projects in Abuja, working closely with us, as well as other relevant authorities is to identify key areas of needs and opportunities for collaboration.”
He noted that there are several ways in which their investments can leave a lasting impact and transform the landscape of Nigeria’s capital city for the better.
While commending NIDO Americas for creating the platform for engagement and knowledge exchange between the Diaspora community and the youths, the minister urged the participants to seize the opportunities to build themselves so they can be part of those to create sustainable solutions that benefit all.
Ealier, in his welcome remarks, Chairman, America Diaspora Committee, Dr. Ezekiel Macham, explained that the Diaspora Week is an initiative of NIDO Diaspora Worldwide, as part ways of giving back to the society.
He disclosed that about 500 youth registered but only 300 were selected for the 5-Day intensive and extensive ICT training programme, in Abuja.
He commended the FCT Minister for accepting to host the training that has participants from Ogun State and FCT, which reflects his commitment to human development in the FCT.
On his part, Dr. Victor Ubani, Chairman, NIDO-Americas and Coordinating Chairman, NIDO Worldwide, reiterated the diaspora community’s continued support towards Nigeria’s rapid development.
Ubani, who was represented by former NIDO Chairman, Engr. Obed Monago, said that NIDO as an umbrella body of diaspora community will always encourage Nigerians abroad to explore ways of investing in the country.
Some of the participants, thanked NIDO Americas and the FCT Administration for the opportunity, and promised to utilise the ICT skills and other technical assistance to mentor their peers and help advance the country.
Among those present at the training programme include NIDO America FCT Committee Chairperson, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, and other top management staff of the FCTA.
