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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has passionately appealed to Nigerian medical professionals living abroad to return home, emphasizing that “there’s nowhere like home” and underscoring the critical role they can play in strengthening the nation’s healthcare system and overall development.
The President made the call on Friday during a meeting at the State House in Abuja with members of the Nigerian Diaspora Medical Associations. The delegation was led by the Director-General of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa. The engagement aligns with the National Diaspora Day Celebration 2026, themed ‘Harnessing Global Diaspora Medical Expertise to Strengthen Local Health Systems for National Development.
Drawing from his own experience of studying and working in the United States before returning to Nigeria, President Tinubu shared a personal message: “I’ve been through that journey. I’m home, and I can tell you, there’s nowhere like home.” He recounted his time at Standard Oil in Chicago and his decision to return, describing it as a fulfilling commitment to turning Nigeria around.
President Tinubu urged the delegation to encourage their colleagues still abroad to come back and join the Renewed Hope Agenda. “My friends who are still there, try to attract them home,” he said. He highlighted the immense value of their expertise in building a better future for generations of Nigerians, while reaffirming his administration’s resolve to fight poverty and deliver prosperity.
“Your coming to help is immeasurable,” the President told the group. “Your children will see the foundation of this country as belonging to them.”
The meeting also featured commendations for the health sector team, including Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako, for advancing key healthcare initiatives. President Tinubu directed NiDCOM to prepare personalized letters of appreciation for the visiting diaspora professionals.
This appeal forms part of broader efforts to reverse brain drain in the health sector and harness the skills, knowledge, and networks of Nigerians in the diaspora for national growth.