By Adeola Badru

Leaders of the OBIdient and Kwankwasiyya movements in the diaspora have forged a partnership aimed at promoting democratic participation, civic engagement and national development in Nigeria.

The collaboration was announced at the inaugural OBIdient–Kwankwasiyya Global Diaspora Conference held in the United Kingdom, where participants resolved to deepen cooperation and mobilise Nigerians abroad for greater involvement in national affairs.

The conference, jointly organised by the OBIdient Movement Europe and the Kwankwasiyya Movement Diaspora, took place at the Springdale Methodist Community Centre in Doncaster, United Kingdom.

It brought together Nigerians from Europe, Africa and North America, with both physical and virtual participation from the United Kingdom, Germany, Greece, Spain, the United States, Nigeria and other countries.

A statement by the organisers said the gathering was aimed at promoting dialogue, collaboration and constructive engagement on Nigeria’s democratic future.

Former Kano State Governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, delivered a virtual address as the guest of honour.

Other speakers at the event included the National Coordinator of the OBIdient Movement, Dr Yunusa Tanko; Leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement in the Diaspora, Dr Muhammed Hamisu; Coordinator of the OBIdient Movement UK, Percy Nduka; Coordinator of the OBIdient Movement Germany, Lewis Ugochukwu; and Convener of the OK Movement Worldwide, Jackie Wayas.

In his opening remarks, OBIdient Lead for Europe, Damola Adebayo, said the conference marked the beginning of stronger cooperation among Nigerians committed to accountable governance and national progress.

“This conference is about building bridges, encouraging dialogue and working together as Nigerians who believe in a better future for our country,” Adebayo said.

He acknowledged the different backgrounds of both movements but stressed that they shared a responsibility to contribute positively to Nigeria’s development.

“While our movements may have different histories and perspectives, we all share a responsibility to contribute positively to Nigeria’s development,” he added.

Participants at the conference said Nigerians in the diaspora have a crucial role to play in strengthening democracy through peaceful political participation, knowledge sharing and professional contributions.

The gathering also provided a platform for discussions on national issues and areas of collaboration on civic engagement initiatives.

Speakers emphasised that sustained dialogue and cooperation among Nigerians, regardless of political or geographical differences, would promote democratic growth and long-term development.

At the end of the conference, participants resolved to strengthen communication among diaspora networks, expand engagement across different regions and sustain initiatives aimed at encouraging Nigerians to take active roles in the democratic process.

The organisers expressed appreciation to participants who attended physically and virtually, saying the level of participation reflected the commitment of Nigerians abroad to remain connected with national affairs.

They added that the conference represented the beginning of broader engagements aimed at building partnerships, promoting dialogue and encouraging diaspora participation in Nigeria’s development.

According to them, sustained collaboration between the OBIdient and Kwankwasiyya movements would contribute to stronger democratic participation, national unity and increased citizen involvement in shaping the country’s future.