By mercy Peter
The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has congratulated Commander Matuwo I. Olufokunbi of the United States Navy on his groundbreaking accomplishments, describing them as a proud moment for Nigeria and its diaspora community.
Commander Olufokunbi, a Nigerian-American, has made history as the third Nigerian-American to assume command of a U.S. Navy warship. More remarkably, he is the first Nigerian-American to qualify as a Nuclear Engineer under the prestigious U.S. Navy Nuclear Propulsion Program, one of the most elite and demanding programs in the American military.
In a statement issued by Gabriel Odu of NiDCOM’s Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, Dabiri-Erewa lauded Olufokunbi’s feat as “a source of pride and inspiration not only to Nigerians in the diaspora but also to the entire nation.”
She commended his resilience, discipline, and pioneering spirit, noting that his achievements reflect the ingenuity, determination, and global competitiveness of Nigerians across the world.
“This is a reflection of the Nigerian spirit of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Commander Olufokunbi’s outstanding success demonstrates once again that Nigerians in the diaspora are excelling in every field of human endeavor,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
She emphasized that his success in one of the toughest military training and leadership programs underscores the quality and capability of Nigerians globally.
Dabiri-Erewa also urged young Nigerians to see Olufokunbi’s story as proof that with integrity, determination, and hard work, they can excel in any career path, regardless of location.
The NiDCOM boss reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to celebrating and supporting Nigerians in the diaspora, whose achievements, she said, continue to uplift the country’s image internationally.
