Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has called on graduating students of Lagos State University (LASU) to step into the global stage with purpose, excellence, and unwavering national pride.

?Delivering the Convocation Lecture at LASU’s combined 29th and 30th Convocation Ceremonies on Tuesday, centered on the theme "From LASU to the World: Harnessing the Nigerian Diaspora as the 7th Region for National Development," Dabiri-Erewa urged the new graduates to act as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria regardless of where their career paths lead.

?She encouraged the class to adopt a global mindset while staying rooted in their homeland, emphasizing that international experience should be leveraged to acquire knowledge, expand networks, and channel resources back into nation-building.

?Describing the Nigerian diaspora as the country’s "7th Region," the NiDCOM chief highlighted the immense potential of the global Nigerian community—a network rich in skill, capital, and influence that remains vital to national progress.

She noted that the expanding global footprint of Nigerians offers profound opportunities if their collective expertise and investments are directed toward domestic growth.

?Dabiri-Erewa, who received an honorary doctorate from the institution in 2023, reminded the graduates that true success extends beyond individual achievements to encompass societal impact.

Charging them with the core message to "Be Useful, Visible, and Nigerian," she urged the class to contribute to Nigeria’s future through innovation, mentorship, strategic partnerships, and giving back.