Nigeria’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire Nwaobiala Congratulates Joseph Onah on FG’s National Diaspora Merit Award

Nigeria Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Ezenwa Chukwuemeka Nwaobiala has congratulated High Chief Joseph Ajah Onah on his conferment of the 2026 National Diaspora Merit Award by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).

Onah, President of the Benue State Union in Côte d’Ivoire, international businessman and philanthropist, received the prestigious award on Saturday, July 25, during the grand finale of the 2026 National Diaspora Day celebration in Abuja.

The ceremony, held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, attracted senior government officials, diplomats, lawmakers, business leaders and Nigerians from different parts of the world.

Onah was honoured for his contributions to philanthropy, humanitarian service, entrepreneurship, community development and exemplary leadership. He was also recognised for his efforts towards promoting the welfare, unity and positive image of Nigerians in the Diaspora.

His recognition was particularly significant as he was the **only award recipient from Côte d’Ivoire** at the ceremony.

In a congratulatory message, Nwaobiala, on behalf of the Embassy of Nigeria in Côte d’Ivoire and his own behalf, described the award as a well-deserved recognition of Onah’s contributions to Nigeria and the Nigerian community abroad.

The Ambassador said the honour was a testament to Onah’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s interests and promoting the welfare of Nigerians living outside the country.

He noted that Onah’s recognition also underscored the important role Nigerians in the Diaspora continue to play in national development and in projecting Nigeria’s image and influence internationally.

Nwaobiala further described Onah’s achievement as an inspiration to Nigerians abroad, urging him to remain committed to service and community development.

“Your achievement serves as an inspiration to the Nigerian Diaspora and underscores the invaluable role which Nigerians abroad continue to play in contributing to national development and strengthening Nigeria’s image and influence internationally,” the Ambassador said.

He expressed confidence that the award would further encourage Onah to continue his contributions to Nigeria and the Nigerian Diaspora while achieving greater accomplishments in the years ahead.

The 2026 National Diaspora Day celebration was held from July 24 to 25, providing a platform to recognise Nigerians whose contributions have made a positive impact on national development and communities across the globe.

Onah’s latest honour adds to his profile as a businessman, philanthropist and community leader committed to promoting the interests and welfare of Nigerians in Côte d’Ivoire.