Hon. Kenneth Chibuogwu Gbandi, former Coordinating Chairman of NIDO Worldwide and ADC Diaspora Chieftain, has expressed deep concern over the embarrassment caused by the empty Nigerian booths at the just-concluded TICAD9 Summit in Japan. The images, now trending across global media, highlight once again Nigeria’s recurring failure in international representation.
According to Hon. Gbandi, the incident further justifies the urgent need for the Federal Government to adopt a robust Diaspora engagement strategy through NIDCOM and in partnership with NIDO and other professional Nigerian organizations abroad. “Our Diaspora community is filled with competent professionals who could have willingly provided backup and represented Nigeria effectively as trade ambassadors,” he stated.
He lamented the millions of dollars wasted on jumbo delegations that bring no measurable value to the national economy. “Anyone familiar with such events knows the cost of securing and setting up these booths. To leave them empty is a reckless waste. I challenge the responsible government agencies to publish the budget for this fiasco—Nigerians will be shocked,” Gbandi declared.
Calling for accountability and reform, he urged the government to fully implement the Nigerian Diaspora Policy and adopt a citizen-centered diplomacy that prioritizes the interests of Nigerians at home and abroad. “Nigeria must never again be represented by empty booths. Our international engagements must reflect the energy, skills, and potential of our people,” he concluded.
Hon. Kenneth Chibuogwu Gbandi; Senatorial Candidate 2023; Former Coordinating Chairman NIDO Worldwide, Former Continental Chairman NIDO Europe, and ADC Diaspora Chieftain
