The First Lady Honoured for Healthcare and Humanitarian Impact, Unveils Major Diaspora Health Initiative
Chioma James
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has been recognised with the prestigious Diaspora Health and Humanity Champion Award at the 2026 National Diaspora Merit Awards, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to healthcare advancement and humanitarian development across the country.
The award was presented during the fourth edition of the National Diaspora Merit Awards, organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) as part of activities commemorating the 2026 National Diaspora Day celebrations. The event, themed “Harnessing Global Diaspora Expertise to Strengthen Local Health Systems for National Development,” attracted healthcare professionals, policymakers, development partners and distinguished Nigerians from across the globe.
Represented by the Wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, Senator Tinubu expressed profound appreciation to NiDCOM for the honour, describing it as both a recognition of ongoing efforts and a renewed call to deepen collaboration in transforming healthcare delivery nationwide.
In a major announcement that underscored the significance of diaspora engagement, the First Lady revealed that 70 medical professionals under the Diaspora Health Impact Initiative (DHII) will soon return to Nigeria to undertake medical missions, provide specialist healthcare services, train local practitioners and implement capacity-building programmes in various parts of the country.
According to her, the initiative reflects the patriotism, dedication and commitment of Nigerians in the diaspora to national development through the transfer of knowledge, professional expertise and humanitarian service.
Senator Tinubu also called on Nigerian healthcare professionals living abroad to continue investing their skills, experience and mentorship in the nation’s health sector, particularly in nurturing the next generation of medical practitioners.
Reaffirming the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to healthcare reform, she stressed that building a resilient, accessible and efficient healthcare system remains a top priority, noting that quality healthcare is fundamental to sustainable national development and improved quality of life for citizens.
In her remarks, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NiDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, applauded Nigerians in the diaspora for their remarkable achievements and enduring contributions to national growth through investments, knowledge sharing, humanitarian interventions and professional excellence.
She noted that the positive impact of Nigerians abroad continues to strengthen key sectors of the economy while enhancing the nation’s reputation on the global stage.
The ceremony also celebrated several distinguished Nigerians for their exceptional contributions in various fields. Among the honourees were Chief Chike Nweke, who received the Entertainment, Arts and Tourism Award; Dr. Douglas Emeka Okor, recognised in the Medicine and Healthcare category; Professor Fatima Kyari, recipient of the Diaspora Health Impact Initiative Award; Professor Hakeem Ibikunle Tijjani, honoured in the Education category; Chief Joseph Onah, who received the Philanthropy Award; and Haruna Kuje Anzaku, recognised with the Distinguished Service Award.
The National Diaspora Merit Awards continue to spotlight outstanding Nigerians whose achievements, innovation and service—both at home and abroad—are driving national development and projecting a positive image of Nigeria across the world.
