The Nigerian Senate has confirmed Abike Dabiri-Erewa for a second term as the chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
Earlier this month, President Muhammadu Buhari had forwarded a letter to the Senate, seeking the confirmation of Dabiri-Erewa for another term.
The Senate confirmed Dabiri-Erewa’s appointment during plenary session on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, following the presentation of a favorable report by Nanchi Michael, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Diaspora.
During the presentation, Michael emphasized Dabiri-Erewa’s exceptional technical expertise and academic qualifications, affirming her suitability for the position.
The lawmaker also noted that no petitions were raised against her during her first term, highlighting her commendable track record and accomplishments.
Michael also acknowledged Dabiri-Erewa’s pivotal role as the original sponsor of the bill that led to the establishment of the NiDCOM during her tenure as a member of the House of Representatives.
Dabiri-Erewa, who previously served as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, played a crucial role as the pioneer chairperson of the NiDCOM, which operates under the jurisdiction of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Prior to her appointment to the commission, the NiDCOM chairperson represented the Ikorodu constituency of Lagos as a distinguished member of the National Assembly.
In addition to Dabiri-Erewa’s confirmation, the Senate also approved the appointments of three individuals as board members of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
The nominees, Benard Okwmagba (Delta), Patric Aisowieren (Edo), and Kyrian Uchegbu (Imo), were confirmed following the presentation of a report by Amos Bulus, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on NDDC.
The Senate also confirmed the appointment of Funke Opeke as a member of the Universal Service Provision (USP) Board, to strengthen the composition of the board responsible for ensuring universal service access across the country.
KanyiDaily had recently reported how Abike Dabiri-Erewa got into a verbal fight with a young man who slammed her over the recent attack on Nigerian students in an Indian university.
