July 11, 2026
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has named Professor Hakeem Tijani, a Nigerian academic based in the United States, as a recipient of the 2026 National Diaspora Merit Award (NDMA) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to education.
The honour was conveyed in an official letter dated May 22, 2026, signed by the Secretary of the Commission, Sule Bassi, on behalf of the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
According to NiDCOM, the National Diaspora Merit Award celebrates Nigerians living abroad who have distinguished themselves in their professions while making significant contributions to Nigeria’s development.
Professor Tijani will receive the award during the National Diaspora Merit Award ceremony scheduled for Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The event is part of the National Diaspora Day celebrations, which the Federal Government set aside to recognise the invaluable contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora.
In the invitation letter, the commission described Professor Tijani as a deserving recipient, citing his remarkable contributions to the advancement of education.
National Diaspora Day also provides a platform for engaging Nigerians in the diaspora through networking, policy advocacy and the celebration of excellence.
