AFRIDU calls for Nigeria to host international diaspora gathering

President of the African Diaspora Union (AFRIDU), Professor Chidiebere Anelechi Ogbu, in a meeting with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has appealed to the Nigerian government to host an international event honoring the African Diaspora’s Sixth Region.

The meeting, hosted in Abuja by Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, highlighted the potential of such an event to attract global attention.

Speaking at the gathering, Ogbu emphasized that the event is an opportunity for black people worldwide, especially those with African ancestry traced through DNA technology, to visit Nigeria and other states considered their ancestral homes.

“This will be a significant welcoming event akin to FESTAC 77, initiating a major movement of African Diaspora experts, investors, professionals, scientists, entertainers, academics, and skilled individuals to Nigeria. This initiative aims to facilitate the integration of Africans in the diaspora,” he stated.

Hon. Dabiri-Erewa (middle) with members of AFRIDU

Ogbu further noted that the event could serve as a platform for a global investment summit in Nigeria, enhancing the country’s attractiveness to African descendants and investors seeking favorable environments.

He also urged the Nigerian government to grant citizenship waivers to the descendants of Transatlantic Slave Trade victims as part of reparative justice efforts.

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, expressing her excitement about the proposal, assured that the Nigerian government is eager to collaborate on the summit.

She commended AFRIDU’s initiative, viewing it as a chance for networking, cultural exchange, and addressing diaspora issues.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our shared heritage and strengthen ties between Africans in the diaspora and their motherland. It will foster unity, collaboration, and progress among Africans worldwide,” Dabiri-Erewa said.

She reiterated the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for Nigerians abroad to thrive and contribute to national growth, recognizing their vital role in the country’s progress.

The meeting also saw attendance from notable figures, including His Eminence King Alfred Diete-Spiff, Prof. (Sen.) Oserheimen Osunbor, Dr. Moriel McClerlin, President of Southland Care Coordination Partners, and Hon. Halims Agoda.

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