Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ The Chairman and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has highlighted the pivotal role of Nigerians abroad in advancing the country’s sports sector. She emphasized that their skills, expertise, and investments can significantly contribute to national development, particularly in fostering sports excellence.
Dabiri-Erewa made these remarks in Lagos while welcoming Super Bowl champion Morotoluwa Ojomo at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja. The event, attended by NiDCOM officials, was a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to recognizing and engaging its diaspora community in meaningful national contributions.
According to a press statement signed by NiDCOM’s Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocol Unit, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Ojomo’s recent Super Bowl victory with the Philadelphia team serves as an inspiring example of the resilience and determination of Nigerians on the global stage. The statement reaffirmed NiDCOM’s dedication to fostering stronger ties with the diaspora and ensuring that their achievements and contributions receive due recognition.
Morotoluwa Ojomo, originally from Lagos, migrated to the United States in 2009. There, he honed his athletic abilities, playing college football in Texas before advancing to the professional league and ultimately securing a prestigious Super Bowl title. His return to Nigeria was a celebratory moment, led by his father, Pastor Ololade Ojomo, and a delegation of supporters who hailed his accomplishments.
During the welcome ceremony, Dabiri-Erewa commended Ojomo’s perseverance and success, describing his journey as an inspiration for young Nigerians aspiring to excel in sports. She encouraged Nigerians in the diaspora to actively invest in the country’s sports sector, emphasizing the importance of knowledge transfer and mentorship in fostering local talent and infrastructure development.
“The success of Nigerians like Ojomo proves that with determination and hard work, excellence can be achieved at the highest levels. NiDCOM remains committed to strengthening the bond between Nigeria and its diaspora, ensuring that their contributions to national progress are appreciated and utilized effectively,” Dabiri-Erewa stated.
Beyond celebrating Ojomo’s achievements, the event underscored a broader initiative to harness the potential of Nigeria’s global citizens for sustainable development. Dabiri-Erewa urged more Nigerian diasporas to consider investing in grassroots sports programs, talent development initiatives, and infrastructure projects that could elevate Nigeria’s standing in global athletics.
As Nigeria continues to cultivate its sports sector, leveraging the expertise and resources of its diaspora community remains a crucial strategy. Stories like Ojomo’s highlight the boundless possibilities that exist when talent meets opportunity, reinforcing the importance of strong collaborations between Nigeria and its diaspora for the nation’s overall growth and success.
