Metro
Nigerians in Diaspora Commission gets commendations over National Diaspora Day 2024 celebrations
For the successful celebrations of the National Diaspora Day 2024 and the second edition of the Diaspora merit Award with the theme “JAPA Phenomena and Its Implications for National Development”, the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization Americas, (NIDOA) has commended the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, (NIDCOM), led by the Chairperson, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
The “JAPA” phenomenon, a colloquial term referring to the significant number of Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad, has been a subject of considerable debate among Nigerians in both formal and informal settings.
The event which held between July 25th and 26th, 2024 at the Banquet Hall of Nigeria’s Presidential Villa in Abuja, witnessed a large convergence of Nigerians from all over the world. Other Diaspora Nigerians who could not travel down for the event gathered at their respective branches as the event was streamed live on multimedia screens and they were also afforded the opportunity to link up with Abuja from New York, Australia, Ghana and many other countries for live discussions. Resource persons also made their presentations from the U.S, UK, South Africa, India and other locations without having to be physically present in Nigeria.
In a statement signed by Mr Bukola Olaoye and Uche Uzoigwe, Chairman and Secretary, Board of Trustees of NIDOA respectively, they commended the meticulous planning and seamless execution of the event which underscores NIDCOM’s commitment to fostering stronger ties between Nigeria and her Diaspora Community. “The discussions, presentations and insights shared during the event were thought-provoking and highlight the complexities and opportunities presented by the JAPA Phenomena. It is commendable how the event brought together diverse voices from various sectors to deliberate on the ways in which the Diaspora community can contribute to national development despite the challenges of migration. The innovative ideas and strategies discussed will undoubtedly serve as a foundation for future policies and initiatives aimed at leveraging the talents and resources of our diaspora community”, the statement reads.
NIDOA who were represented at the event by a strong delegation led by the BOT Chairman, Mr. Olaoye, said different speakers in their keynote addresses and discussions, shed more light on the push and pull factors driving emigration, emphasized the importance of creating a conducive environment for talent retention and reversing brain-drain thereby turning it to brain-gain. They said they look forward to the implementation of some of the recommendations at the event which include enhancing diaspora engagements, improving local opportunities, and fostering international collaborations. The statement said every diaspora Nigerian is looking forward to the day when diaspora voting will become a reality and is delighted to see leaders of the Nigerian parliament taking turn to make commitment towards making that dream come through.
NIDOA thanked Hon Dabiri-Erewa and her team for organizing an occasion that afforded participants the opportunity to network among themselves, encouraging unity and friendship which is expected to lead to collaborative initiatives between the diaspora community and local entities in the days ahead. The statement added that “NIDOA delegates were able to engage other continental delegates and also connected with representatives of the Nigerian Immigration Service and had fruitful discussions concerning passport intervention for members, and plans for future ICT partnership among others”. They promised to establish a mentorship program that connects young professionals in Nigeria with experienced diaspora members, create partnership with investment forums to attract diaspora investment in key sectors of the Nigerian economy, and develop skill-transfer programs that will facilitate the transfer of skills and knowledge from the diaspora to home based professionals.
The statement reaffirmed NIDOA’s commitment to working collaboratively with NIDCOM to address the implications of the JAPA Phenomena as they believe that with concerted efforts, the current challenges can be turned into opportunities for sustainable national development.
Metro
Senator Ifeanyi Ubah Laid to Rest Amidst Tributes
***Death a Lesson to the Living – Cardinal Okpaleke
The late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah was buried on Friday at his hometown, Umuanukam, Otolo Nnewi, Anambra State, following a solemn funeral service at St. Peter Claver Parish.
His passing drew an outpouring of grief and tributes from dignitaries, clergy, family, and friends.
Cardinal Peter Okpaleke, Bishop of Ekwulobia, described Ubah’s death as a profound lesson for the living, urging everyone to strive to leave an impactful legacy.
“His demise is a lesson to us all,” said the Cardinal during his homily. “We must strive to live a life that will be remembered for good. We must touch lives, make a difference, and leave a lasting legacy.”
The Cardinal highlighted Ubah’s philanthropic acts and unwavering commitment to uplifting others, which he urged attendees to emulate.
Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State expressed deep sorrow, recalling his last interaction with the late senator earlier this year.
“I still remember when we met sometime in May, and I asked him if he was nursing an ambition for something. We spoke about his future plans, not realizing this tragedy was ahead,” Soludo lamented.
Former Senator Uche Ekwunife described Ubah as a “rare gem” and a leader whose kindness and dedication to youth development left an indelible mark.
“In you, we saw the true essence of leadership and kindness—not just in titles and positions but in words and deeds,” Ekwunife said, praising his contributions to sports and the empowerment of young people.
Ubah’s impact was evident as mourners, including political figures, clergy, and locals, reflected on his legacy of service, compassion, and excellence. His townsman, Joe Ezeike, remarked, “Ubah’s passing has left a void in the nation’s political landscape, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations.”
The funeral was marked by an atmosphere of solemnity and reflection as attendees paid their final respects to a man remembered for his selflessness, leadership, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Metro
Deji Adeyanju fires back at Wike over Comments, Labels Him a “Bully and a Coward”
Human rights activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju has issued a scathing response to comments made against him by Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister and former Rivers State governor. Wike had recently accused Adeyanju of being jobless, noting that the activist once sought his support in a bid to become the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national publicity secretary.
During a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Adeyanju didn’t hold back, describing Wike as “a bully and a coward.”
He went on to criticize Wike’s character and political approach, saying, “Wike has never worked anywhere in his life. He is a serial betrayer. The only difference between Wike and Portable is that Portable does not betray people who have helped him.”
Adeyanju praised Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his recent actions against Wike, saying, “I commend Governor Fubara for dealing decisively with him. That’s how to deal with tyrants. Wike is nothing without politics.”
He further expressed his concerns over Wike’s influence, stating, “The reason why he is making so much noise and constituting a nuisance all over the place is because of our political patrimony that he loots. Clowns and charlatans like Nyesom Wike will open their mouths and criticize true activists.”
Adeyanju also highlighted the importance of citizens participating in politics, saying, “Wike wants everyone to leave politics to rogues like him. His idea of nation-building is where people like him control everything. All citizens of conscience should get involved in politics.”
The back-and-forth between Adeyanju and Wike highlights ongoing tensions within Nigerian political circles and has sparked discussions about the role of activists and the nature of leadership in the country.
Metro
Late COAS Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja Laid to Rest in Abuja Amid Tears, Tributes
***Emotional Farewell as Nigeria Mourns a Dedicated Military Leader
Amid deep sorrow and heartfelt tributes, the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, was laid to rest on Friday at the National Cemetery in Abuja.
His burial concluded two days of solemn funeral rites that began in Lagos, marking the end of an impactful military career.
The casket bearing Lagbaja, draped in Nigeria’s green and white, arrived at the cemetery around 3 pm following a funeral service at the National Christian Centre in Abuja.
His body was lowered into the earth at 4:41 pm after a ceremony lasting over two hours.
The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Acting Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru, and other high-ranking officials.
President Tinubu, paying tribute, called Lagbaja’s appointment one of his most significant decisions and announced a posthumous national honor of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) for the late COAS. He urged the military not to lose hope: “Please, do not let death defeat us, and as Commander-in-Chief, I renew my pledge that the country will always support you and your families.”
General Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, echoed this sentiment, calling Lagbaja’s passing a call to strengthen the military’s resolve.
“Let us ensure his sacrifice continues to guide us as we defend this nation. We are resolved to defeat all enemies of the state, whether within or outside,” he stated.
Acting COAS Oluyede expressed personal gratitude for Lagbaja’s mentorship, sharing that he had nominated him for a national honor even while facing illness.
Lagbaja’s funeral rites began with a service of songs at the Army Headquarters Garrison Parade Ground, Mogadishu Cantonment, on Thursday, following the arrival of his body at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport from Lagos.
Lt. General Lagbaja, born on February 28, 1968, served as Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff for over a year, having been appointed by President Tinubu in June 2023. He passed away on November 5 after a brief illness, leaving a legacy of dedication and patriotism.
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