By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
President Bola Tinubu has appealed to Nigerian medical professionals in the diaspora to encourage more of their colleagues abroad to return home and contribute their expertise to the country’s development, declaring that there is no place like home.
The President made the appeal on Friday, 24 July, 2026 while receiving members of the Nigerian Diaspora Medical Associations at the State House, Abuja.
The delegation was led by the Director-General of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa. Tinubu drew from his personal experience of studying and working in the United States before returning to Nigeria, saying his journey reflects the value of coming back home to contribute to nation-building.
Recounting his early career in the United States, the President said he had the opportunity to acquire valuable professional experience in accountancy and finance before deciding to return to Nigeria.
He recalled working in the iconic Standard Oil Building in Chicago during his time in America and noted that the knowledge and exposure he gained abroad have since been deployed in service to his country.
Tinubu said returning home presented its own challenges but described the decision as worthwhile because it offered him the opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s development.
He observed that many Nigerians living abroad have experienced both the opportunities and the difficulties associated with life outside the country and urged them to channel those experiences into national progress.
The President, therefore, called on members of the delegation to persuade more Nigerian healthcare professionals overseas to return home and support efforts to improve the country’s healthcare system.
He assured them that his administration remained committed to implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda, with the objective of creating a better environment, improving education, driving development and delivering prosperity for Nigerians.
Tinubu described the contributions of diaspora medical professionals as invaluable, saying their expertise would help lay a stronger foundation for future generations.
According to him, the administration is working to build a country where Nigerian children would have confidence in their future and a sense of ownership of national development.
The President also reaffirmed his government’s determination to tackle poverty and improve the welfare of citizens, stressing that poverty remains unacceptable and must be confronted through sustained economic reforms and inclusive development.
Speaking on Nigeria’s democratic evolution, Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain patient and committed to strengthening democratic institutions.
He noted that when compared with countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, whose democratic traditions have evolved over centuries, Nigeria’s democracy is still relatively young and requires determination, focus and continuous improvement.
The President also referenced preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, describing the tournament as an example of the power of unity and shared purpose.
He expressed the hope that Nigerians would continue to celebrate their country with the same level of patriotism and collective commitment demonstrated by citizens of other nations.
Tinubu further directed the Director-General of NiDCOM, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, to prepare personalised letters of appreciation for members of the delegation.
He also instructed his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Chief Sunday Dare, to coordinate the exercise and present the letters for his signature.
The President equally commended members of his administration driving reforms in the health sector, particularly the Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako, for their commitment to advancing his healthcare agenda.
