By Palma Ileye
Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has pledged to support the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, NiDCOM, in its vision to promote the good image of Nigeria beyond its borders.
Tunji-Ojo in a press release issued yesterday by Alao Babatunde, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Minister of Interior stated this on Tuesday while receiving on courtesy visit the Chairman and CEO of the commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in Abuja.
He said, “Keeping NiDCOM afloat is our collective responsibility. I want to assure you that as a Ministry we are ready to support you because whatever you do for our people in the diaspora has a ripple effect on our people at home.”
The Minister, who spoke extensively on need to create wealth as a Government, noted that the Commission as a Government body represents “the good image of the country beyond our borders.” And, thus, “deserves more support than” what it is currently getting.
“Most families have their breadwinners abroad. With NiDCOM providing them welfare supports, the commission is helping us ensure national integrity, security and peace.
“Also, there is a lot we can achieve from a partnership with NiDCOM. Like India, we must look beyond oil and see how a knowledge-based economy can turn things around for the country,” he said.
On receiving support from the Ministry, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, appreciated the kind gesture of the Minister, adding that the commission will be motivated to do more in the new regime.
She said, “Our people in the diaspora extend their regards. They call you a working Minister, and they are delighted to see the wonderful things you are doing at the Ministry. Thank you, Honorable Minister. And, with your support, we can only do more.”