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Diasporans Are Important in Any Nation’s National Initiatives- Irish Ambassador
Diasporans Are Important in Any Nation’s National Initiatives- Irish Ambassador
By: Michael Mike
The Ambassador of Republic of Ireland to Nigeria, Mr. Peter Ryan has appraised the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS), noting that the country’s diasporans are important partner in any nation’s national initiatives.
Speaking at the sixth edition of the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit which kicked off in Abuja on Monday with pitching sessions for upcoming and start-up businesses, the envoy said he was not surprise about the abundant talents in Nigeria, adding that he was ready to do anything to encourage and support in this direction.
Ryan said: “It’s a really inspiration morning. Any time the diasporans come to gather to connect with one another, I think it is worthwhile and really interesting time for Nigerians in diaspora .
“I am very impressed with what I have seen and impressed with what I have heard. Not surprise at all. I learnt from Nigerians in Diaspora in Ireland that there are so many talented and motivated people ready to work with partners at home and also with partners around the world.
“Anything we can do to support and encourage that and we know from our own diaspora, the important role that they can play as a partner in national initiatives and I am delighted to be part of this, this morning. I’ve learned a lot already.
“I have learned also about pitching and about some of the sectoral and entrepreneurship taking place in Nigeria.”
On her part, Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, urged Nigerians in Diaspora to put their money in businesses back home.
She states that there are abundant opportunities that is available in Nigeria, which can earn them money, without necessarily being present.
She pointed out that the NDIS is all about wealth creation by the Diasporans.
Dabiri-Erewa also applauded the pitching session of the summit which, she said will open doors for upcoming and existing small businesses to connect with investors abroad..
She said: “It is about how you can get money for your businesses and we have those at the Diaspora who are actually employing people here.
“You don’t have to be physically present. There are people who are earning money online through them.
“As we look forward towards that, we are saying we want to have Diaspora Direct Investment. You know, it is slow and steady but we are still doing it. You can see the passion in the country.
She noted that Diasporans are investing already, particularly in healthcare industry, ICT, food business, education. So we are happy with what we are seen here today.
Also speaking, Summit Coordinator and Chair, Planning Committee, Dr. Badewa Adejugbe-Williams, said the summit which will officially kick off on Tuesday, “Is about human capital development, building humanity, empowering the micro, small and medium enterprises and the ordinary market woman.”
No fewer than 2000 people have indicated interest in participating at the annual event.
Diasporans Are Important in Any Nation’s National Initiatives- Irish Ambassador
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
Lent and Ramadan Tribute: To the Jagaban of Burgu and the Jagoran Arewa
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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