The vital role of diaspora alumni in Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development will be the central focus at the upcoming annual reunion of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) UK Alumni Association.
Speaking during a virtual world press conference held on Thursday, ahead of the event scheduled for Saturday, Chairman of the Organising Committee, Mr. Emeka Onyeje, highlighted the significant and growing contribution of diaspora alumni to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He described the reunion as a landmark event—the first of its kind—and expressed confidence in its far-reaching impact.
Mr. Onyeje also revealed that the event is expected to draw international participants, with a keynote address to be delivered by Chief Sir Dozie Donat Okolo, a former UNIZIK Alumni Presidential aspirant.
He said that Okolo, who is the Chief Executive Officer of SENIOM Foundation, dedicated to supporting the education of children and youth, especially the less privileged, will speak on the ‘Impact of diaspora alumni in the Nigerian socio-economic and political development’.
Onyeje, a graduate of English Language of Unizik while lamenting the decaying basic infrastructure in Nigeria, urged the government to carry diaspora alumni along in key decision-making.
“It is time the government establishes Diaspora alumni Commission. It is time the government recognises the impact of alumni in the Nigerian economic growth. The number of alumni in diaspora is growing at geometric progression because of state of the country,” Onyeje said.
According to him, unless the government creates an enabling environment, unemployment, and brain drain will remain unabated.
The maiden reunion is expected to be held at Sixth Form Atrium Lampton School, Lampton Avenue, Hounslow London.
Also speaking, Chief Sir Dozie Donat Okolo who is the Chairman of the capacity-building event said that he is excited to attend the event because of the passion he has for alumni.
According to him, government should not ignore diaspora alumni in decision-making, noting that it is the only way to attract brain gain.
