Abuja: Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NiDO) Worldwide has pledged to partner with Nigerian security agencies to bolster the Federal Government’s efforts to protect the lives and property of compatriots.
The organisation’s leaders disclosed this during its maiden virtual global diaspora meeting to commemorate the 2026 Nigerian Armed Forces Celebration Day.
The Day, celebrated annually on January 15, aims to foster unity among Nigerians and also honours, reflects on, and demonstrates solidarity with both living and fallen Nigerian soldiers.
Chairman of NiDO-Worldwide, Mr Chibuzo Ubochi, expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police (I-G) of Nigeria, Olukayode Egbetokun, for honouring the invitation to the event.
The I-G was represented by CSP. Haruna Abdullahi, Police Public Relations Officer, Kano State Police Command.
Ubochi said: “It is never too late to stand shoulder to shoulder with our brothers and sisters at home to honour, celebrate and remember the men and women who defend our nation.
“This year, we in the diaspora decided to honour, celebrate and remember men and women who defend our nation: Today, we say thank you to them.
“Today, I say thank you, because our safety, our dignity, our national pride, you secure it for us. Although we reside in the Diaspora, we still feel the impact of the Nigerian Armed Forces.”
Egbetokun commended NiDO-Worldwide’s leadership for the show of love for Nigeria and for its concern for Nigerians’ safety and security.
According to him, this is a demonstration of recognition of the sacrifice of Nigerian soldiers and veterans who have fought under various climatic conditions, as well as psychological, social, and physical challenges, to protect the Nigerian state.
“Today, IGP joined other security heads to celebrate our fallen heroes, and the Nigerian Police Force will continue to work closely with the military and other security agencies to ensure the safety and security of Nigerians.
“You are remembered as Nigerians in Diaspora wherever you are. We will not fail you. You are our eyes outside. You are the representatives of Nigeria everywhere you go, and we always listen to you.
“We always appreciate all you have been doing, in order to see that Nigeria continues to prosper and that development continues to get to Nigeria, and to ensure security and safety,” Egbetokun said.
The event, jointly moderated by Mrs Vire Komolafe, Chairman of the Organising Committee of NiDO-Worldwide, and Dr Abimbola Oluwasona, Coordinating Secretary of NiDO-Europe, featured a minute of silence in honour of fallen heroes.
The highlight of the event was an overview of Diaspora contributions to nation-building by Mr Obed Monago, Chairman Emeritus of NiDO-Americas, and a Diaspora reflection by Dr Victor Ubani, Chairman of NiDO-Americas.
Others are Diaspora reflections from Asia by Prof. Franca Akinola, Coordinator, NiDO-Asia, and the visit by NiDO-Worldwide delegates to the 1st ECWA Church and Yah Satar Mosque, both in Osogbo, Osun.
There was also a donation by NiDO-Worldwide to the widows of the Nigerian Armed Forces in Lagos, among others.
