By Uche Amunike
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), on her 63rd birthday, praising her dedication to public service and her contributions to the welfare of Nigerians at home and abroad.
Tinubu conveyed his goodwill message in a statement issued on Sunday, describing Abike Dabiri as a committed public servant, a loyal member of his political party, and a professional whose career has been shaped by years of service to the country.
The President recalled that Dabiri-Erewa began her professional journey as a broadcaster with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) before venturing into politics and public administration.
He commended her commitment to supporting disadvantaged Nigerians and promoting social justice, noting that her work has consistently reflected concern for the well-being of vulnerable people.
According to Tinubu, Dabiri-Erewa has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to Nigeria and humanity by making the welfare of underprivileged citizens a priority throughout her career.
The President also highlighted her experience across journalism, legislative duties, and her leadership of NIDCOM, describing her contributions to protecting the interests of Nigerians living both within the country and overseas as significant.
He particularly praised her efforts to encourage Nigerians in the Diaspora to contribute their expertise and resources towards national development.
Tinubu noted that the skills and experience of Nigerians living abroad could play an important role in strengthening critical sectors, including education, healthcare, and sports.
He described Dabiri-Erewa’s efforts to attract Diaspora talent and encourage participation in Nigeria’s development as commendable, adding that the recognition and awards she had received reflected her contributions to public service.
In his birthday message, the President prayed for God’s continued blessings, wisdom, and good health for the NIDCOM chief executive as she continues her work.
He expressed hope that she would remain strengthened to pursue the causes she has championed over the years.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa previously served as a member of the House of Representatives, representing the Ikorodu Federal Constituency of Lagos State between 2003 and 2015.
During her time in the National Assembly, she chaired the House Committee on Media and Publicity and later headed the House Committee on Diaspora Affairs.
Her legislative responsibilities placed her at the centre of discussions concerning media relations, Nigerians living overseas, and the country’s engagement with its Diaspora community.
Her subsequent appointment to lead NIDCOM brought her experience in journalism and lawmaking into an agency established to coordinate and strengthen Nigeria’s relationship with citizens living abroad.
The commission works to promote the interests of Nigerians in the Diaspora and encourage their participation in the country’s social and economic development.
Tinubu’s birthday message recognises Dabiri-Erewa’s years in public service and highlights the importance of engaging Nigerians abroad in national progress.
As she marks her 63rd birthday, the President’s message places particular emphasis on her commitment to vulnerable citizens, social justice, and mobilising Diaspora expertise to support Nigeria’s development.
