The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Channels Television, Mr. John Momoh, has advocated for deepened collaboration between Nigeria and its diaspora community to leverage global expertise, revamp the national healthcare system, and drive sustainable development.
?Speaking as the keynote speaker at the 2026 National Diaspora Day Celebration and National Diaspora Merit Awards in Abuja, Momoh lauded the global Nigerian diaspora for their patriotism and unwavering dedication to their homeland.
Quoting the adage, "No matter how far a river flows, it never forgets its source," he emphasized that the remarkable achievements of Nigerians abroad reflect a deep-rooted connection to their roots.
?Momoh highlighted that the nation possesses an abundance of world-class talent, particularly in healthcare, but stressed the urgent need to create structured local opportunities for these professionals to impact national growth.
Commending the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) for establishing vital links between home initiatives and citizens abroad, he noted that "when knowledge travels back home, everyone wins."
?The veteran broadcaster urged a paradigm shift in viewing healthcare, asserting that it must be treated as critical national infrastructure rather than just a basic social service.
Rebuilding the sector, he argued, requires synergy among the government, private sector, medical professionals, and the diaspora. He called for actionable partnerships focusing on skills transfer, collaborative research, and knowledge exchange over merely celebrating foreign-based Nigerian talent.
?Reiterating his faith in the nation's potential, Momoh stated that a country's greatest asset is its people rather than its natural resources. He commended diaspora members for serving as global ambassadors and reminded them that professional success carries the responsibility of giving back through tangible contributions.
?Addressing the youth, Momoh encouraged them to innovate and build pathways for others, defining true success by the opportunities created for the broader community. He also congratulated the recipients of the National Diaspora Merit Awards, honoring their sacrifices and urging them to remain beacons of Nigerian excellence.
?Momoh concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to foster trust and turn diaspora expertise into practical solutions that will fortify Nigeria's healthcare infrastructure and elevate the standard of living for all citizens.