The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has praised the official declaration of July 5 as “Ijaw Day” by the City of Houston in Texas, United States. She described the recognition as a historic and proud achievement for the Ijaw people, Bayelsa State, and Nigeria as a whole.
According to Dabiri-Erewa, the decision by the Houston city authorities reflects the increasing global recognition of Nigerian culture and the growing influence of Nigerian communities in the diaspora. She said the move is more than just a cultural celebration; it also strengthens the connection between Nigeria and its citizens living abroad.
“This is a significant milestone,” she said. “It supports NiDCOM’s mission to promote unity among Nigerians globally and also encourages cultural identity and national development through diaspora engagement.”
The Ijaw people, one of Nigeria’s major ethnic groups, are mainly found in the Niger Delta region, especially in Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers States. Over the years, Ijaw communities in the U.S. have remained active in promoting their traditions and contributing to both their host country and their homeland.
Dabiri-Erewa expressed confidence that the recognition of Ijaw Day in Houston will open new doors for partnerships, particularly between Bayelsa State and its diaspora. She urged other Nigerian communities abroad to emulate the Ijaw leadership in Houston, who, through strong advocacy and dedication, achieved the recognition from the American city.
“This is not just a celebration. It is a wake-up call for all Nigerians in the diaspora to continue showcasing the positive image of the country. When we unite around our culture and history, we can achieve much more,” she added.
She also used the opportunity to encourage greater collaboration between state governments and diaspora Nigerians, stressing that cultural recognition like this can lead to initiatives that benefit the home country through investment, knowledge sharing, and policy support.
NiDCOM, under Dabiri-Erewa’s leadership, has consistently worked to connect the Nigerian government with its global citizens. The Commission facilitates diaspora engagement, supports returnee reintegration, and promotes the contributions of Nigerians abroad in nation-building.
In her message, the NiDCOM CEO congratulated the Ijaw Community in Houston and its leaders for their role in achieving this recognition. She applauded their dedication to preserving their cultural heritage and said the Commission remains committed to assisting Nigerian communities abroad to achieve similar milestones.
“The declaration of July 5 as Ijaw Day is a strong signal that our voices are being heard across the world. Let this inspire other communities to take pride in their culture and contribute to Nigeria’s growth from wherever they are,” she said.
The event is seen as a major win for Nigerian cultural diplomacy. It not only gives visibility to the Ijaw people but also strengthens Nigeria’s presence in international cities. For many Nigerians in the diaspora, such recognition boosts morale and encourages stronger ties to their roots.
The move by Houston is also expected to encourage other cities in the U.S. and beyond to recognize the contributions of African and Nigerian communities to their multicultural societies. Cultural events such as Ijaw Day promote unity, understanding, and respect among diverse communities.
Houston is known for having one of the largest Nigerian populations in the United States. The city has also hosted several Nigerian festivals and cultural parades over the years. With the official recognition of Ijaw Day, more attention is now expected on Nigerian cultural activities in the city.
