EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW:
FISHERIES: Key to Nigeria’s Source of Internal Generated Revenue for Foreign Direct Investment -Varsity don, AGBEBI Funmilola Omolara, Professor of Fisheries Economics & International Marine Policy
…bagged bachelor’s degree at 21, received master’s degree at 25, earned Doctorate degree at 31, to become a professor at the age of 46 years
*‘Given the current state of affairs in Nigeria, I propose N200,000 as the minimum wage, Central Bank of Nigeria can manage inflation by implementing monetary policy measures’
*‘Infrastructure problems facing Nigerian Universities: Outdated laboratories, ill-equipped classrooms, Lack of Amenities; Insufficient Funding, Staff Shortages, Brain Drain; Bureaucratic Difficulties, Unfavorable Working Conditions, Unrest and Strikes’
*Decision to pursue a career in academia stems from desire to make a meaningful contribution to knowledge and research in the world
*“I would like to relocate overseas to teach in a foreign university for the following reasons for global exposure: Teaching in a foreign university will give me a broader perspective, exposure to diverse cultures, and opportunities for international collaboration and networking. I will have more research opportunities for better research facilities, funding opportunities, and academic resources which will enhance my research endeavors coupled with advanced educational infrastructures, cutting-edge technologies, and well-established academic systems that support effective teaching and research”-AGBEBI
*BY GEORGE ELIJAH OTUMU/AMERICA Senior Investigative Editor
SHE IS HIGHLY INTELLIGENT, FOCUSED AND PASSIONATE IN HELPING NIGERIA’S RE-DISCOVERY. She is confident that the vicissitudes of problems plaguing Africa’s most populous nation could be solved, if only the leaders would listen to her advice.
In this rare interview, AGBEBI FUNMILOLA OMOLARA, Professor of Fisheries Economics & International Marine Policy, Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Technology School of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology Okitipupa, Nigeria takes us through her career, state-of-the nation among others:
NAIJA STANDARD: How will you describe the state of Nigerian Universities and its academic performances?
Like many universities throughout the world, Nigerian universities have experienced a number of difficulties that have an impact on student performance and educational quality as a whole. Among these difficulties are:
Infrastructure Problems: Outdated laboratories, ill-equipped classrooms, and a lack of amenities were among the many infrastructure problems that plagued Nigerian institutions. The standard of instruction and research opportunities may be impacted by this.
Financial Challenges: Lack of funds for research, development, and facility upgrades was a common problem for Nigerian universities. Inadequate funding may lead to antiquated technology, insufficient educational resources, and a staffing deficit.
Staffing Issues: The quantity of highly qualified academic personnel in Nigerian universities raised questions. Due to a significant brain-drain wave that resulted in high student-teacher ratios and possible difficulties upholding high academic standards, several universities faced a staffing shortage of highly qualified individuals.
Education Quality: The standard of instruction differed throughout establishments. Due to the aforementioned issues, some universities were able to maintain high standards for both teaching and research, while others found it difficult to provide a quality education.
Security Concerns: The academic environment may be impacted by security difficulties in some parts of Nigeria. The ability of staff and students to concentrate on their jobs and studies may be impacted by instances of insecurity, as field trips become increasingly unfeasible.
Unrest and Strikes: Staff and student strikes on a regular basis at universities pose a serious threat. These interruptions may cause students to miss out on important academic time and create an unstable learning environment. The Government and other education sector stakeholders are working hard to solve these issues, but the question that remains is when real change will occur.
NAIJA STANDARD: What are the factors you see as greatest challenges facing Nigerian lecturers to give quality education to the students?
There is a connection between this question and the one before it. There are a number of obstacles Nigerian lecturers must overcome in order to give the students a high-quality education. Among the principal difficulties are:
Insufficient funding and inadequate infrastructure: Lack of funding for higher education can lead to a shortage of resources for staff development, research, instructional materials, and infrastructure. A dynamic learning environment and access to current resources may be impeded by a lack of financing for lecturers.
Staff Shortages and Brain Drain: A lack of trained lecturers is a problem at several universities. Furthermore, the issue known as “brain drain,” in which talented academics go for more favorable prospects overseas, is having a lot of effect on the supply of knowledgeable and accomplished instructors.
Insufficient Professional Development: It could be difficult for lecturers to find opportunities for ongoing professional development. The caliber of research and teaching might be impacted by a lack of training options and programs.
Large Class Sizes: It may be challenging for lecturers to give each student individualized attention and feedback when there is a high student-to-teacher ratio. During the learning process, large class sizes may impede efficient communication and interaction.
Bureaucratic Difficulties: Lecturers frequently have to deal with intricate administrative procedures, which can take a lot of time and take them away from their research and teaching. Delays in receiving required clearances and gaining access to research money are examples of bureaucratic obstacles.
Unfavorable Working Conditions: Lecturers typically deal with difficult working conditions, such as low compensation, irregular salary payments, and unstable employment. These elements significantly lower lecturer satisfaction, which has an impact on their drive and dedication to deliver high-quality instruction.
NAIJA STANDARD: What inspired you into embracing academia as a career, instead of any other profession?
My decision to pursue a career in academia stems from my desire to make a meaningful contribution to knowledge and research, as well as my love of mentoring and teaching. My interest in academia was sparked by my quest for intellectual curiosity, the chance to practice critical thinking, and my ambition to positively influence society. The idea of influencing the future generation of academics and professionals and making a positive impact on my field’s developments also drives me. I can investigate interests and follow novel ideas since academia frequently grants me some intellectual independence. I have a strong preference for autonomy since I respect intellectual independence. My job has also given me the chance to positively influence society through policy influence, ground-breaking research, and training the next generation of leaders. Academics can contribute to society in a variety of ways.
I have options for ongoing professional development thanks to academia. Attending conferences, pursuing further degrees, and interacting with academic groups all help me improve professionally and personally. Two of academia’s most alluring features are the chance to work together on research projects with colleagues and the feeling of community that comes with it. It provides me with a worldwide involvement that includes conferences, international collaboration, and the chance to interact with a worldwide network of academics. I am drawn to this global perspective since I am a big fan of cross-cultural interactions. Even though academics can have rigorous timetables, they frequently allow for some scheduling flexibility. I really like the freedom here since it allows me to better manage my time and strike a balance between my personal and professional lives. My profession provides me with intrinsic motivation as well because I am driven to learn new things and like intellectual pursuits like solving challenging puzzles.
NAIJA STANDARD: NIGERIA depends boldly on OIL as the main source of Economy since the nation’s independence in 1960. How can Fisheries be a major source of Internal Generated Revenue, IGR and Foreign Direct Investment, FDI, to the country?
A comprehensive and systematic approach is needed to develop Nigeria’s fisheries as a key source of Internal Generated Revenue (IGR) and to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Nigeria’s economy has historically been centered on oil, but economic viability requires diversification. Nigeria wants to diversify its economy and move away from a reliance on oil. It is true that the fishing industry has a big potential to boost GDP and draw in foreign direct investment. The following crucial actions can be implemented to support fisheries as a major source of IGR and draw foreign direct investment (FDI):
Development of Infrastructure: Invest in the modernization and expansion of cold storage facilities, processing plants, landing sites, harbors, and other fishing infrastructure. The fishing industry is more efficient and competitive when its infrastructure is improved.
Employment Opportunities and Job Creation: Numerous job possibilities could be created by the fisheries industry, which includes both aquaculture and catch fisheries. This has the potential to enhance livelihoods and reduce poverty.
Research and Development: Encourage studies to better understand fish populations and manage them sustainably. To stop overfishing, this involves making technological investments for improved tracking, monitoring, and management of fisheries resources.
Development of Aquaculture: Encourage the development of aquaculture as a sustainable sector. Offer financial incentives to private investors so they can participate in fish farming, which can greatly increase domestic fish production and decrease import dependency. By making investments in sustainable aquaculture methods, fish production can increase and satisfy the rising demand for fish both domestically and globally. Aquaculture has the potential to be a reliable source of fish protein and a lucrative export commodity.
Research and Innovation: Increasing productivity and sustainability in the fishing industry can be achieved by funding research and innovation. Research expenditures have the potential to produce new technology, enhanced aquaculture techniques, and better processing techniques.
Regulatory Framework and Governance: To draw in investors, it is imperative to set up strong governance frameworks and regulations. Establishing regulations that are transparent and unambiguous can boost confidence among foreign and domestic investors, so creating a favorable business atmosphere.
Sustainable Practices: The long-term survival of the fishing and aquaculture industries depends on a focus on sustainable practices. In addition to helping to preserve the ecosystem, sustainable fishing methods make fisheries products more marketable on global scales.
Adoption of Technology: To increase the effectiveness of fishing operations, promote the adoption of cutting-edge, environmentally friendly fishing technologies. This can involve using eco-friendly fishing gear, sonar to find fish, and GPS for navigation.
Standards and Quality Assurance: Establish and uphold quality standards for fisheries goods in order to comply with global regulations. Standards compliance increases Nigerian fish products’ export potential and draws in global investors and purchasers.
Prospects for Exports: Nigeria might expand its exports of fish and seafood items to foreign markets. Building top-notch processing facilities that adhere to international standards can boost the nation’s export earnings by making it more competitive on the world market.
Investing in training programs for fish growers, fishermen, and other stakeholders in the fisheries value chain is one way to build capacity. Developing human potential improves the industry’s sustainability and overall output.
Market Access and Promotion: By securing advantageous trade agreements with other nations, promote market access for Nigerian fish products. Promote Nigerian fish aggressively on global marketplaces to draw in overseas customers and boost export revenue.
Addition of Value: For small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), expanding the fisheries value chain from production and processing to distribution and marketing might open up new opportunities. Economic growth is promoted by investment at different levels of a well-developed value chain. boosting the processing and packaging sectors to promote value addition in the fishing industry. The increased market value of packaged and processed fish products contributes significantly to IGR.
Regulatory Framework: Create and implement rules that support environmentally friendly fishing methods. Regulators that are clear and easy to understand foster a favorable business climate and draw in ethical investors.
PPPs, or public-private partnerships: Encourage collaborations between the public and commercial sectors to create and oversee fisheries infrastructure. Partnerships between the public and private sectors can draw in capital, knowledge, and improve the sector’s overall performance.
The strategy of diversification: Create a thorough economic diversification plan including fishing as a major industry. This plan should include precise objectives, guidelines, and financial incentives to draw capital and encourage the fisheries sector to grow sustainably.
Nigeria may lessen its dependency on oil and maximize the economic potential of its aquatic resources by carefully growing and investing in the fisheries industry. By drawing in foreign direct investment and increasing local revenue, diversification helps promote a more robust and sustainable economy. By putting these strategies into practice, Nigeria can aim to lessen its reliance on oil while harnessing the fisheries industry’s economic potential for FDI and IGR. An economy with greater diversity tends to be more resilient and less susceptible to changes in the price of oil around the world.
NAIJA STANDARD: What are the obstacles you think Nigeria must overcome in being able to diversify into Fisheries Economy?
Nigeria must overcome a number of challenges before it can fully realize the enormous potential of the fishing industry by diversifying into a fisheries-based economy. Among the principal difficulties are:
Infrastructure Deficiencies: The effectiveness of the fisheries value chain can be hampered by inadequate transportation, cold storage, and processing facilities, among other infrastructure components. Infrastructure development is critical to the sector’s expansion and competitiveness.
Absence of Contemporary Technology Productivity might be restricted by antiquated fishing methods and a deficiency of contemporary aquaculture technologies. Research funding and technological adoption can boost productivity, increase yields, and encourage environmentally friendly behavior.
Limited Finance Access: For many small-scale fishermen and aquaculture farmers, finance access is a major obstacle. Putting in place systems to offer credit and funding at reasonable rates can assist business owners in making investments in machinery, infrastructure and technology.
Insufficient Regulatory Framework: Overfishing, illicit fishing, and the unsustainable exploitation of aquatic resources can result from a lack of clear and efficient rules. For fisheries management to be sustainable, the legal framework and enforcement procedures must be strengthened.
Environmental Degradation: Fish populations may be adversely affected by pollution, habitat destruction, and other environmental degradation. Aquatic ecosystem health depends on the implementation and enforcement of environmental conservation measures.
Insufficient Research and Development: Innovation in the fishing industry is impeded by a lack of funding for research and development. Fostering research endeavors can result in the creation of novel technology, enhanced breeding techniques, and sustainable conservation approaches.
Impact of Climate Change: Fish habitats, migration patterns, and the general health of ecosystems can all be impacted by climate change. It is essential to create resilient aquaculture techniques and adaptation plans in order to lessen the effects of climate change on the fishing industry.
Insufficient Extension Services: Adopting optimal practices in fishing and aquaculture may be hampered by a lack of access to technical assistance and extension services. Improving information transfer and raising the level of expertise among industry participants can be achieved by strengthening extension services.
Challenges with Market Access: Gaining entry to international markets requires adherence to strict quality and safety regulations. Enhancing market access and export potential can be achieved by ensuring that fishery products meet international standards and improving their quality. The development of the fisheries industry may be hampered by restricted access to both domestic and foreign markets as a result of strict quality standards, certification requirements, and poor marketing infrastructure. Resolving obstacles to market access is essential to luring investment.
Overfishing and Overcapacity: Fish supplies can be depleted and ecosystems harmed by overfishing in some areas and overcapacity in the fishing industry. Sustainable resource utilization requires the implementation of efficient fisheries management strategies, which include quotas and fishing season restrictions.
Insecurity: Fishermen and aquaculture operations may be at danger due to security issues, particularly in coastal areas. For the fishing industry to continue developing sustainably, worker safety must be guaranteed.
Policy and Regulatory Obstacles: Ineffective enforcement combined with ambiguous and inconsistent regulations might make investments uneasy and impede the growth of the fishing industry. To draw in investment, a regulatory system that is open and strictly enforced is necessary.
Lack of Training and Skills: To improve the capacities of people working in the fishing industry, training and skill development initiatives are required. Enhancing productivity requires training in contemporary fishing methods, aquaculture management, and seafood processing.
Post-Harvest Losses: Considerable losses in fish quality and quantity are a result of inadequate post-harvest handling and processing facilities. In order to minimize losses and improve the value chain, proper post-harvest management procedures and infrastructure are essential.
To surmount these obstacles and unleash the economic potential of Nigeria’s fisheries sector, a concerted effort involving the government, private sector, and other stakeholders, as well as strategic policy interventions, investments in infrastructure, R&D, and the promotion of sustainable practices, are necessary.
NAIJA STANDARD: Inflation is all time high in Nigeria. The prices of food is expensive and Nigerian NAIRA seems to have lost huge value in the FOREX Market. How do you think inflation can be reduced or brought to a bearable minimum in the nation?
Nigeria’s high inflation is a complicated issue that calls for a multifaceted strategy that takes into account both immediate and long-term economic issues. A mix of internal and external forces frequently affects inflation. Among the actions that could be taken to lessen and stabilize the economy are:
Monetary Policy: The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) can manage inflation by implementing monetary policy measures including interest rate changes. Interest rate changes can affect investment and consumption, which in turn can affect inflationary pressures.
Fiscal Policy: The government has the authority to enact fiscal measures, including managing the national debt and restricting spending. The application of fiscal restraint can lessen inflationary pressures.
Exchange Rate Management: It’s critical to maintain exchange rate stability. A more stable currency lowers the cost of imported items, such as food and other necessities, which helps maintain price stability.
Supply-Side Interventions: By addressing supply-side restrictions in important industries like manufacturing and agriculture, we may assist prevent excessive price increases by increasing the availability of goods and services.
Increasing Agricultural Productivity: Putting money into agriculture to increase output can help keep food costs down. Better infrastructure, financing availability, and technological support for farmers can all increase output and help maintain price stability. Encouraging investment in the agricultural sector has the potential to increase food production and decrease reliance on imported food.
Infrastructure Development: Reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the supply chain can help stabilize prices. This includes transportation and storage facilities.
Reducing Trade barriers: Improving trade procedures and lowering obstacles would help ensure that commodities move freely, fostering competition and averting monopolies that could lead to price increases.
Policy Transparency and Credibility: By keeping the policymaking process transparent and interacting with the public in an effective manner, economic policies can gain greater credibility and promote stability.
Inflation Targeting: Adopting a formal framework for inflation targeting can serve as a strong monetary policy anchor and demonstrate the government’s commitment to price stability.
Investor Confidence: Establishing and preserving investor confidence has the potential to draw in foreign capital, keep the foreign exchange market stable, and promote general economic stability.
Anti-Corruption Measures: Reducing the likelihood of inflationary pressures can be achieved by addressing corruption to ensuring that resources are allocated correctly and policies are implemented successfully.
Price regulation and monitoring: These measures can aid in preventing unwarranted price increases, particularly when it comes to necessities. Inflation control measures include correcting market inefficiencies and putting in place efficient pricing control systems.
Public Education and Outreach: Expectations can be managed by keeping lines of communication open and honest about the government’s commitment to reining in inflation and economic measures. Decisions about spending and investing can be influenced by clear information, which also increases public confidence.
Structural Reforms: Putting structural changes into place to lower red tape, boost economic competitiveness, and improve the business climate can draw in investment, spur economic expansion, and help control inflation.
It’s important to remember that combating inflation is a difficult undertaking that calls for cooperation from fiscal policymakers, monetary authorities, and other stakeholders. It also necessitates careful consideration and adaptation to the unique economic environment. Furthermore, these actions must be a part of a comprehensive plan for economic reform that promotes equitable and sustainable growth. Furthermore, successful implementation, close observation, and modification in response to changing economic circumstances are frequently necessary for these programs to be successful. To handle inflationary concerns, policymakers may also need to take the international economic situation into account and work with foreign partners.
NAIJA STANDARD: Do you think it was economically wise for President Bola Ahmed TINUBU to have removed subsidy from the nation’s oil sector?
Removing or keeping oil industry subsidies is a difficult and frequently divisive economic policy choice. The economic logic of cutting subsidies relies on a number of variables, such as the nation’s unique economic circumstances, financial standing, and oil industry structure. Removing subsidies is a politically delicate topic, and governments may encounter opposition from the general population. When making decisions, political stability and popular acceptance are crucial considerations. There are two schools of thought on whether or not a country should abolish its subsidies. The first school of thought holds that removing subsidies can raise the cost of living, which may disproportionately affect low-income groups, and that subsidies frequently help consumers by keeping the prices of necessities like fuel affordable. Additionally, the quick elimination of subsidies may cause prices to spike, which would exacerbate inflationary pressures temporarily. Customers’ purchasing power may be impacted by this. The opposing viewpoint holds that government finances can be severely burdened by fuel subsidies and that eliminating them can help provide fiscal space so that funds can be allocated to infrastructure, healthcare, and other vital areas. Additionally, subsidies are also open to misuse, such as the smuggling of subsidized petroleum into nearby nations where costs are higher. Subsidies can be eliminated to lessen these dishonest practices. Because market-driven pricing offers a more transparent and predictable price structure, it can draw private investment to the oil industry. Enhanced competitiveness and efficiency may result from this.
Although the withdrawal of subsidies is, in my opinion, a good thing for Nigeria, but Nigerians feel that it is unfair because there aren’t enough alternatives or public services to make up for the higher cost of living. The economic viability of eliminating subsidies depends on the particular circumstances, such as the state of the nation’s economy, its budgetary position, and the degree of support and understanding among the general public. In order to lessen the immediate negative effects on vulnerable people, successful implementation frequently entails good communication and complementary measures.
NAIJA STANDARD: How much will you suggest being the Minimum wage for an average Nigerian family to earn for survival in the face of the prevailing face of inflation?
To put things in perspective, a minimum wage should ideally be sufficient to meet a family’s basic needs, which include: Making sure a family can afford a healthy diet; paying for housing; covering the family’s basic healthcare costs; covering the costs of children’s education; covering the cost of transportation to and from work; and covering other necessities like clothing, water, electricity, and other items. Given the current state of affairs in Nigeria, I propose N200,000 as the minimum wage.
NAIJA STANDARD: What are the high points of your academic accomplishments?
I obtained a B.Sc. degree in Zoology and did my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at the Fisheries and Hydrobiology Laboratory of the Zoology Department, University of Ibadan in 1988 after which I continued my MSc in the same Department. I proceeded to Federal University of Technology Akure in 1993 for my PhD. and bagged a doctorate degree in 1997 with specialization in Fisheries Economics. I was awarded a two-year fellowship by the Japanese government in 2001 to pursue postdoctoral studies in International Marine Policy at Kagoshima University in Japan. In 2004, the Israeli Government awarded me a postgraduate research grant to pursue a diploma in Aquaculture Production and Health at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Rehovot, Israel.
My research efforts have been focused significantly on Fisheries Economics, International Marine Policy, Blue economy, toxicology study of the aquatic environment, fish post harvest techniques in the tropics and gender research in promoting Sustainability and Entrepreneurship amongst Women in Agriculture. All these research efforts have culminated into publications of 65 Journal articles and published proceedings and several papers have also appeared in the books of abstract and monographs worldwide. I have acquired 25yrs working experience in consultancy, community development, research and training at the University since graduation. Consultancy assignments and experience have been largely sponsored by Nigerian Government, United Nations Development Programme, DFID, Japanese Government, Israeli Government, Global Development Network, (GDN), World Bank and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). I have led various positions of responsibilities in academia such as Head of Department, Dean, member University governing council, member of University Senate, Director, Center for Blue Economy, Chairperson and member of several Statutory and ad hoc Committees. I am a member of many National and International professional societies like Member, African Women Leaders in Agriculture and Environment, African Rural Social Sciences Research Network. Organization of Women in Science from Developing World (OWSDW, International Institute of Fisheries Economic and Trade (IIFET), Fisheries Society of Nigeria. (FISON), Japan International Fisheries Research Society, (JIFRS), World Aquaculture Society and Great Lakes Initiatives, to mention a few. I have also been involved in series of mentorship programs like AWARD and One Planet Fellowship.
NAIJA STANDARD: At what ages did you earn your Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate degrees and became a Professor?
I got my B.Sc at age 21, M.Sc at 25 and My PhD at age 31. I also became a Professor at 46yrs old
NAIJA STANDARD: Do you intend to relocate Overseas to reach in foreign universities or you would rather remain in the country?
From my own personal opinion, I will like to relocate overseas to teach in a foreign university for the following reasons; for global exposure. Teaching in a foreign university will give me a broader perspective, exposure to diverse cultures, and opportunities for international collaboration and networking, I will have more research opportunities because of more and better research facilities, funding opportunities, and academic resources which will enhance my research endeavors coupled with advanced educational infrastructures, cutting-edge technologies, and well-established academic systems that support effective teaching and research. I will have better quality of life after working so hard and for so long, I need a better healthcare, and a more stable political and economic environment. I will also have access to better remuneration. University lecturers in Nigeria are poorly paid which is very disheartening and lowers ones morale. With the present exchange rate in Nigeria of 1USD to N1, 130, professor’s net salary with all allowances and deductions monthly is 294 USD (N332, 833).
NAIJA STANDARD: What is your word of advise for Nigerians at home and Nigerians in the Diaspora?
My general piece of advice for both Nigerians at home and Nigerians in the Diaspora is that, for Nigerians at Home, they should embrace unity and collaboration within communities and across diverse groups. Working together can contribute to social cohesion, economic development, and national progress. They should prioritize education and skill development. Continuous learning and acquiring new skills enhance personal growth and contribute to the overall development of the nation. They should consider entrepreneurship as a viable path. Small and medium-sized enterprises play a crucial role in economic development, and entrepreneurial endeavors can contribute to job creation and innovation. They should get involved in community initiatives and activities. Active participation in local projects and organizations fosters a sense of belonging and contributes to positive community development.
They should be environmentally conscious as practicing sustainable habits and promoting environmental responsibility can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future for the nation. For Nigerians in the Diaspora, they should maintain a connection with Nigerian culture and heritage and preserve the cultural identity and traditions which is important for personal identity and contributes to a rich and diverse global Nigerian community. They should strive for professional excellence and contribute positively to the societies in which they reside. The success of Nigerians in the Diaspora reflects positively on Nigeria as a whole. They should build international connections which can open up opportunities for personal and professional growth and create avenues for positive contributions to Nigeria. Investment in Nigeria is very important. Diaspora remittances and investments play a significant role in the national economy and contribute to various sectors such as real estate, technology, and entrepreneurship. They should advocate for the interests of Nigerians abroad and contribute to positive representations of Nigeria. Promoting a positive image can enhance the global perception of Nigeria and its Diaspora community. Finally, whether at home or in the Diaspora, Nigerians have the collective power to contribute to the growth and development of the country. Embracing values of unity, education, entrepreneurship, community involvement, and environmental responsibility can contribute to a stronger, more vibrant, and resilient Nigeria.
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