Hard Work Pays Off – Dabiri-Erewa, Others Inspire Youths at Diaspora Summit

Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has called on Nigerian youths to embrace hard work, discipline, and dignity as essential tools for long-term success.

Speaking on Day Two of the 2025 National Diaspora Day Youth Empowerment Summit in Abuja, Dabiri-Erewa recounted her personal journey from journalism to politics and national leadership, attributing her rise to consistent dedication and integrity.

“As a journalist at NTA, I did my job with pride. That work ethic got me nominated for a Harvard course by Rev. Father Kukah. Though it cost $10,000, Arcor Group sponsored me, and that opportu

Following the Harvard experience, she left NTA’s Newsline and ventured into politics with the backing of Senator Remi Tinubu and now President Bola Tinubu. She went on to serve 12 years in the House of Representatives before being appointed Senior Special Assistant on Diaspora Affairs and eventually heading NiDCOM.

“My hard work earned me respect. Wherever you are, work hard and carry yourself with dignity,” she advised the youth audience.

Also speaking at the summit, Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, commended Dabiri-Erewa for her consistent youth engagement. “Commitment is the key to success,” he said, urging young Nigerians to remain focused and believe in themselves.

Hon. Bobby Digi-Olisa, a U.S.-based Nigerian lawmaker from New York, challenged the youths to "know yourself and take bold steps," while Prof. Fene Osakwe encouraged them to make Nigeria proud wherever they find themselves.

On the topic of migration, Alex Oturu from the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons warned against overstaying visas and breaching travel regulations, noting that such actions lead to irregular migration. He also highlighted the dangers of human trafficking.

Adventurer and travel influencer, Pelumi Nubi, who recently completed a solo drive from London to Lagos, told the youth to dream boldly and start with whatever resources they have. “Trust yourself,” she emphasized.

Miss Diaspora Nigeria-USA, Oyemen Ehikhamhen, shared her story of how the arts helped her find purpose and confidence. “My crown is not just about beauty it’s about power and storytelling,” she said.

As part of the summit’s empowerment efforts, twelve students received laptops, six of whom were top-performing science students sponsored by Arcor Group. Six desktop computers were also donated to schools, and additional laptops were distributed through a raffle draw.

The summit, which is a flagship event for National Diaspora Day celebrations, continues to serve as a platform for inspiring young Nigerians to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s development both at home and in the diaspora.