Africa Diaspora Union International (AFRIDU) has called for the issuance of Nigerian passports to Africans in the Diaspora 6 Region in a historic move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s role as the giant of Africa and fostering unity with the African Diaspora.
Basically, within the African Union, there are 6 regions: North Africa, West Africa, Central Africa, East Africa, and Southern Africa, plus one last region, the “sixth region”, which constitutes the African diaspora.
The international president of AFRIDU, Prof. Chidiebere Anelechi Ogbu, made the call yesterday during an international conference of African Descent in Diaspora and the formal launch of the African Diaspora Union, Nigeria in Abuja.
Ogbu emphasised the need for integration, stating, “It is time for Nigeria to rise as the Giant of Africa and take their place in the Leadership of Africa and embrace the Africans in Diaspora 6 Region as their own.”
LEADERSHIP reports that this initiative seeks to welcome the expertise and contributions of the African Diaspora, including experts, investors, entrepreneurs, celebrities, scientists, professionals, and more, by granting them Nigerian citizenship and passports.
Ogbu said, “Nigeria needs to take its seat in the corridor of greatness of the world, and the African Descendants’return to their roots in Nigeria will help the nation regain its respect and seat of greatness among the nations of the world.”
He said the historical ties that link African Descendants to Nigeria were emphasized, with over 65 per cent of the African Descendants tracing their roots to the country.
Ogbu noted the enduring impact of slavery in Nigeria’s history, from the traditional slave trade to the transatlantic slave trade, and highlighted the strong belief among African Descendants from North America, the Caribbean, South America, and Europe that they have West African, and particularly Nigerian, origins.
He also expressed their commitment to Africa‘s future, stressing the importance of quality education, healthcare, and fair treatment for all residents of Africa.
He highlighted the need for unity among Africans globally, the freedom of movement within the continent, trade opportunities, human rights, and fair employment opportunities to unlock Africa‘s potential and make it a beacon on the world stage.
On his part, His Royal Majesty King Alfred Diete Spiff said, “Our ancestors endured immense hardships, and yet, they persevered, and their legacy lives on in us.”
Spiff said the establishment of the African Diaspora Union Nigeria is a milestone in its commitment to unity, empowerment, and progress.
„We aim to provide a strong voice for the African diaspora in Nigeria and beyond, fostering collaboration, promoting education, and advocating for the rights and welfare of our community,“ he added.
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