In preparation and anticipation to this year’s Nigerians in Diaspora Day, the Nigerian Federal Government says they will take a different approach in the celebration especially in the area of sustainable development, mentorship and services from the Diasporans communities into the Country.
Permanent Secretary, Political Affairs, Office of the Secretary to Government of the Federation, Ambassador. Olukunle Bamgbose made this known when he received Commandant General, Nigerians in Diaspora Mentoring Corps, NIDMECORP, Alistair Soyode who is also the founder and Chief Executive Officer of BEN Television London, in his office in Abuja.
The Permanent Secretary said it is time for the diasporans to contribute their quota through community engagements, volunteering on projects and help in the development of the country, adding that the Federal Government will support any professional person who wishes to come back home to serve his fatherland through volunteering service, capacity and in infrastructural developments.
Amb. Olukunle while commending the Commandant General of NiDMECORP for his support and services to the nation, pledge to work with Nigerians Organisations in Diaspora, NIDMECORP and other relevant stakeholders to ensure a successful Diaspora Day come July 25th 2016.
He also called on other Diaspora organisations to key into the project and start making preparation towards the Day through meaningful packaging of projects that will enhance their presence within the minds of Nigerians at home.
The CG, NIDMECORP, Alistair Soyode in his response, thanked the Federal Government for supporting and recognizing Nigeria in the Diaspora.
He noted that his organization will help in mobilization and publicizing the event to make this years Diaspora Day a huge success.
He promised to talk with the private sector to contribute the quota which he said will help in reducing financial burden to the government.
At the end of the meeting both agreed that the Diaspora Day will be used towards a week of volunteering on schemes under the offices of NNVS who’s Director Mr Tor Tsavar was also in attendance. The schemes would provides places of interest where diaspora can volunteer their supports, such as in the IDP camps, environmental projects and in mobilising experts for human capacity developments and trainings.
This will be the first Diaspora Day event under Amb. BAMGBOSE who’s tenure as Permanent Secretary started last year when the new administration of President Mohammadu Buhari recalled him back to Nigeria to oversees the political affairs in the Office of SGF.