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The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has honoured Kenneth Oguzie, a Canada-based Nigerian trade and investment expert, with the national diaspora merit award for his contributions to leadership development and national growth.
The award was presented to Oguzie during the fourth edition of the national diaspora merit awards held at the banquet hall of the State House in Abuja.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, chairperson and chief executive officer (CEO) of NiDCOM, commended Oguzie for his contributions to leadership development and national development.
Dabiri-Erewa said the award recognised Oguzie’s “selfless service and contributions as a Nigerian in the diaspora in the field of leadership development”.
She added that the recognition was in appreciation of his “unflinching love and contributions to national development”.
Responding, Oguzie described the award as a privilege and a call to greater service.
“This award is a great honour and a reminder that leadership is about service and impact,” he said.
“I’m grateful that my efforts in leadership development and building bridges between Nigeria and the diaspora have been recognised.
“It also motivates me to continue creating opportunities that contribute to Nigeria’s growth and development.”
Oguzie commended NiDCOM for strengthening engagement between Nigeria and its citizens abroad.
He said the commission had created a platform that recognises the contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora while fostering partnerships to support national development.
Oguzie said NiDCOM had helped narrow the gap between Nigeria and its diaspora community by improving communication and expanding opportunities for engagement.
He added that more work is needed in areas such as policy implementation and investment facilitation but said the commission had recorded significant progress.
Speaking on the significance of the national diaspora merit awards, Oguzie said the initiative highlighted the role Nigerians abroad play in nation-building.
He said every Nigerian, irrespective of location, has a responsibility to contribute knowledge, skills and experience towards building a stronger country.
Oguzie is the president and founder of the Africa Canada Trade and Investment Venture (ACTIV), a Nova Scotia-based consultancy.
He said sustainable trade and investment, rather than dependence on aid, are the most effective pathway to accelerating Africa’s socio-economic growth and long-term development.
With more than a decade of international experience spanning four continents and five countries, Oguzie has facilitated cross-border trade and investment partnerships and is recognised as a figure in Africa-Canada economic relations.
He is also known for mentoring internationally educated professionals, promoting economic integration within the African diaspora in Canada, and advancing diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
Oguzie serves on several corporate and advisory boards in Canada and has received several honours, including recognition among the top 10 most inspiring immigrants in Atlantic Canada, the most distinguished Nigerian award by the Nigerian Association in Nova Scotia, and the top 25 individuals in Canada shaping Africa-Canada trade.
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