Prof. Hakeem Ibikunle Tijani, a Nigerian-born academic based in the United States, has been named a recipient of the 2026 National Diaspora Merit Award by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to education and his role as an inspiration to Nigerians living abroad.
The award was conveyed in an official letter dated May 22, 2026, from the Office of the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NiDCOM.
According to the commission, the National Diaspora Merit Award is part of activities marking the annual National Diaspora Day celebration, an initiative of the Federal Government aimed at recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora to national development.
NiDCOM noted that more than 20 million Nigerians living abroad continue to make significant contributions to their host countries and to Nigeria through investments, knowledge transfer, advocacy, and other forms of engagement.
The commission stated that one of its core mandates is to encourage Nigerians in the diaspora to contribute to the development of the country, adding that many Nigerians across the world have distinguished themselves in various fields and have brought honour to the nation.
“In light of the above, the Commission found you a deserving recipient of the National Diaspora Merit Award 2026 for your significant contributions in Education and a Role Model to other Nigerians in the Diaspora to emulate,” the letter stated.
NiDCOM explained that the award is designed to recognize and celebrate exceptional Nigerians abroad who have excelled in their respective fields while contributing to Nigeria’s growth and development.
The commission invited Prof. Tijani to participate in the 2026 National Diaspora Day celebrations scheduled for July 24 and 25 at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
According to the schedule, the National Diaspora Day event will hold at 3:00 p.m. on July 24, while the National Diaspora Merit Award ceremony will take place at 5:00 p.m. on July 25.
Prof. Tijani was requested to formally accept the award and submit a portrait photograph and a one-page citation ahead of the event.
The letter was signed by Engr. Dr. Sule Yakubu Bassi, Secretary to the Commission, on behalf of the Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM.
The recognition further underscores the growing importance of the Nigerian diaspora community and the Federal Government’s commitment to celebrating citizens who are making remarkable contributions to national development from across the globe.
