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Youth Ambassador, Idahosa Makes Case for State Diaspora Agencies

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Youth Ambassador, Idahosa Makes Case for State Diaspora Agencies

 

Ambassador Collins Idahosa, Governor of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), European Chapter, has called on Nigerian authorities to consider institutionalising diaspora agencies at state level across the nation.

Idahosa, who is also the Brand Ambassador for The Global Clusters, a networking platform for entrepreneurs and nation builders, emphasised that the importance of the agency for national development cannot be overstated.

In a statement to THECONSCIENCE NG on Wednesday ahead of his birthday on Thursday, the youth ambassador urged Nigerian states to take a bold and strategic step in that regard.

According to the birthday message and call to action titled “State Diaspora Agencies: A Missing Link in Nigeria’s Development Strategy,” while the federal government has made commendable efforts through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), meaningful diaspora engagement must also be embraced at the state level.

“States must take ownership of engaging their own citizens abroad—those who maintain family ties, support community projects, and wish to be part of their state’s future.”

The statement noted that “in 2023 alone, remittances from Nigerians abroad exceeded $20 billion—a figure that surpasses foreign direct investment and official development assistance combined.

“These funds support millions of households, drive local businesses, finance education, build homes, and provide emergency relief. However, beyond remittances, the Nigerian diaspora contributes through skills transfer, investments, technology partnerships, and global advocacy. These contributions reflect a deep connection to home and an untapped resource for structured development.”

The Global Clusters Ambassador commended Edo and Kwara states, which he said “have taken deliberate steps to establish diaspora-focused agencies and offices.”

He remarked: “The Edo State Diaspora Agency, recently reinforced by the appointment of Dr. Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor as Director-General, stands as a commendable example of institutionalising diaspora engagement. Similarly, Kwara State’s Office of Diaspora Matters reflects a forward-looking vision by recognising the value of its global citizens.”

He also acknowledged states such as Abia, Ondo, Lagos, and Anambra for appointing Commissioners or Special Assistants for Diaspora Affairs.

He insisted that while these efforts are encouraging, they are insufficient, as a Commissioner or Special Assistant can drive political will and offer visibility, but without a formal agency, there is no continuity, resource mobilisation, or programme implementation.

He further explained that a dedicated diaspora agency provides a permanent institutional framework for planning, coordination, monitoring, and evaluation of diaspora engagements.

He stated that it also enables states to align policies with NiDCOM and benefit from federal-level support and bilateral diaspora partnerships.

Speaking further, he explained that beyond government initiatives, innovative platforms like The Global Clusters, led by Ambassador Adekunle Badmus, are already pioneering solutions that align with this vision. As a Brand Ambassador for The Global Clusters, Idahosa said he has seen firsthand how this dynamic global platform is transforming engagement among entrepreneurs, professionals, and technocrats, fostering strategic connections and sustainable development.

He concluded that state governments must explore partnerships with platforms like The Global Clusters to maximise the contributions of their diaspora populations, drive innovation, and create sustainable economic opportunities.

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Eid Fitri: Ambassador Ajadi Calls for Peace, Unity, and Continued Acts of Kindness

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Eid Fitri: Ambassador Ajadi Calls for Peace, Unity, and Continued Acts of Kindness By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

Eid Fitri: Ambassador Ajadi Calls for Peace, Unity, and Continued Acts of Kindness

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

 

The Chairman and CEO of Bullion Records, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has extended warm congratulations to Muslims worldwide, particularly Nigerians, on the successful completion of the 1446 Ramadan fast and the celebration of Eid Fitri today, Sunday, March 30, 2025, which marks the first of Shawwal in the 1446 Muslim Calendar.

Eid Fitri: Ambassador Ajadi Calls for Peace, Unity, and Continued Acts of Kindness
By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

In a goodwill message sent to The Merit Newspaper and other media outlets, Ambassador Ajadi emphasized the significance of the holy month, urging Muslims to uphold the values of steadfastness, love, and unity that were observed during Ramadan. He encouraged them to extend these virtues beyond the fasting period to foster societal harmony.

“The spirit of Ramadan should not end with the sighting of the crescent moon. I urge all Nigerians to continue in the path of righteousness, avoid any ungodly activities they abandoned during the holy month, and embrace the virtues of kindness, generosity, and peace,” Ajadi stated.

Highlighting the essence of Eid Fitri as a time of joy and reflection, he called on Nigerians to celebrate in a manner that promotes peace and unity among all faiths. “Eid Fitri is a celebration of happiness, joy, and peace. It should remind us of the need to maintain the spirit of tolerance and togetherness,” he added.

In the spirit of the season, Ambassador Ajadi also announced that Bullion Records’ fast-rising artist, Abdul Rahman Yusuf, popularly known as Harcher, has released a new single, Peace, which aligns with the message of tranquility and unity. “This song resonates with the peaceful essence of Eid Fitri. It is available on all digital streaming platforms, and the video is being aired on local and cable TV stations, including YouTube,” he noted.

Furthermore, he revealed that Bullion Records is set to unveil two additional singles from Harcher—L.O.V.E and JO SI (Dance To It)—on April 1, 2025. “As we celebrate this joyous occasion, I encourage fans of good music to anticipate these upcoming hits that will add more rhythm to their celebrations,” Ajadi enthused.

He went on by wishing all Muslims and Nigerians a prosperous and peaceful Eid Fitri, reiterating his commitment to supporting positive initiatives that unite and inspire the people.

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DR ADEGBOLA CALLS FOR UNITY AMONG NIGERIANS AS MUSLIM CELEBRATES EID -EL- FITR

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DR ADEGBOLA CALLS FOR UNITY AMONG NIGERIANS AS MUSLIM CELEBRATES EID -EL- FITR

 

In a heartfelt Sallah message to mark this year’s Eid-el-Fitr, Dr. Gbenga Adegbola has extended warm greetings to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and the entire Muslim ummah, especially in Oyo, the pace-setter State.

Dr Adegbola, who recently transitioned into active politics by joining the APC, emphasized the critical need for unity and collective purpose among Nigerians to effectively address the myriad challenges facing the nation and Oyo State. His call for solidarity comes at a time when Oyo State is navigating complex socio-economic issues, and he believes that a united front is essential for its progress and repositioning as the pace-setter State.

In his message, Dr Adegbola expressed, “As we celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, let us remember the values of love, compassion, and unity that this holy occasion embodies. It is imperative that we come together, to support one another and foster a spirit of cooperation that will lead to a brighter future for our beloved Nigeria, and Oyo State in particular.”

He further urged the general public to rally around President Tinubu’s administration, expressing confidence in the leadership’s ability to steer the nation towards greatness. “I have unwavering faith that under President Tinubu’s watch, Nigeria will continue to rise and overcome its challenges,” he stated.

Dr Adegbola’s recent entry into the APC was marked by a warm reception from party stalwarts, including Dr. Ganduje and other key stakeholders. This transition signifies his commitment to serving the nation in a new capacity, leveraging his extensive experience in the military to contribute to the accelerated development of Oyo State.

As Muslims across the country gather to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, Dr Adegbola’s message resonates with the essence of the festive period—encouraging love, unity, and support for one another in the quest for Oyo State to be prosperous.

In closing, he reiterated, “Let us embrace the spirit of Eid by fostering unity and love among ourselves, and building a stronger and more resilient Oyo State: TOGETHER, WE CAN”

DR ADEGBOLA CALLS FOR UNITY AMONG NIGERIANS AS MUSLIM CELEBRATES EID -EL- FITR

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Araraume Felicitates With Tinubu At 73, Commends His Leadership Style

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Araraume Felicitates With Tinubu At 73, Commends His Leadership Style

 

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ifeanyi Araraume has congratulated President Bola Tinubu on his 73rd birthday.

In his message, Araruame described Tinubu’s birthday as a time to celebrate a life dedicated to service, vision and national progress.

He stated that Tinubu’s leadership is dedicated to service, vision, and transformative leadership which continues to inspire hope for a better Nigeria.

Araraume in his message to the president said
“On this auspicious occasion of your 73rd birthday, I join millions of Nigerians and admirers worldwide in celebrating a life profoundly dedicated to service, vision, and transformative leadership. Your journey, marked by an unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy and national progress, continues to inspire generations.

“Mr. President, your legacy as a foundational architect of modern Nigerian politics is indelible. From your pioneering role in Lagos State’s economic revitalization as Governor to your steadfast advocacy for equitable federalism and democratic consolidation, your leadership has consistently embodied courage, innovation, and inclusivity. Today, as our nation navigates complex challenges, your resolute focus on economic reform, security, and unity reaffirms your status as a visionary steward of Nigeria’s destiny.

“Your intellectual depth, political acumen, and unyielding optimism for a prosperous Nigeria resonate deeply with those who believe in the promise of this great nation. I am particularly inspired by your strategic approach to governance—rooted in wisdom, pragmatism, and an unshakable faith in the potential of our people.

“On this milestone, I pray Almighty God grants you enduring vitality, wisdom, and grace as you guide Nigeria toward its loftiest aspirations. May your year ahead be filled with joy, strength, and the fulfillment of seeing your labours yield lasting fruit for our beloved country.

“Happy 73rd Birthday, Mr. President! May history remember you as the leader who ignited Nigeria’s golden era”

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