By Maureen Okon
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has honoured Canada-based Nigerian trade and investment expert, Kenneth Oguzie, with the National Diaspora Merit Award.
The award recognises Oguzie’s contributions to leadership development and national development.
NiDCOM Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, presented the award at the 4th National Diaspora Merit Awards held at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja.
Dabiri-Erewa commended Oguzie for his commitment to advancing leadership development among Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.
She said the award recognised his contributions as a Nigerian in the diaspora and his commitment to national development.
Responding, Oguzie described the award as both an honour and a call to greater service.
“This award is a great honour and a reminder that leadership is about service and impact. I am grateful that my efforts in leadership development and building bridges between Nigeria and the diaspora have been recognised.
“It also motivates me to continue creating opportunities that contribute to Nigeria’s growth and development,” he said.
Oguzie commended NiDCOM for strengthening engagement with Nigerians in the diaspora.
He said the commission had provided a platform for recognising diaspora contributions while promoting partnerships that support national development.
According to him, NiDCOM has helped strengthen engagement between Nigeria and its citizens abroad through improved communication.
He, however, said more work was needed in areas such as policy implementation and investment facilitation.
Oguzie said the National Diaspora Merit Awards highlighted the role of Nigerians in the diaspora in national development.
He added that the initiative reminded Nigerians, regardless of where they reside, of their responsibility to contribute to the country’s progress.
Oguzie is President and Founder of the Africa Canada Trade and Investment Venture (ACTIV), a Nova Scotia-based consultancy.
He has more than a decade of international experience across four continents and has facilitated cross-border trade and investment partnerships.
He also mentors internationally educated professionals and promotes the economic integration of members of the African diaspora in Canada. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Emmanuel Yashim
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