'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has extended its congratulations to four Nigerians who have recently secured notable electoral victories in the United States and Australia. Dr. Oye Owolewa, Chiaka Barry, Segun Adeyina, and Yemi Mobolade have achieved significant milestones by winning elections to various positions in their countries of residence.
According to a statement today by the Commission's Spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, NiDCOM Chairman, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, expressed her admiration and pride for the accomplishments of these Nigerians, describing their victories as a testament to their resilience and determination. She praised their achievements as records in the political landscapes of their respective regions and encouraged them to continue setting high standards in public service.
Dr. Oye Owolewa – Shadow Representative, District of Columbia, USA
Dr. Oye Owolewa, a pharmacist, was re-elected as the Shadow Representative for the District of Columbia, representing the Democratic Party. Owolewa, who has been a voice for the District in seeking congressional representation, expressed his gratitude to his supporters for their continued confidence in him.
Chiaka Barry – Member of the Legislative Assembly, Ginninderra District, Australia
Chiaka Barry secured a position in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Legislative Assembly, representing the Ginninderra District under the Liberal Party. A seasoned legal officer with a background in litigation, legislative drafting, and policy development, Barry is also known for her dedication to community service.
Segun Adeyina – State Representative, District 110, Georgia, USA
Segun Adeyina, who has a strong background in IT program and project management with Fortune 500 companies, was re-elected as the State Representative for District 110 in Georgia, USA. Adeyina’s career spans over 25 years, with leadership roles at companies including General Motors, Ascension Health System, and Hewlett Packard/Cap Gemini.
Adeyemi Mobolade – Mayor, Colorado Springs, USA
In a groundbreaking victory, Adeyemi Mobolade became the Mayor of Colorado Springs in 2023, marking a historic moment as the city’s first Black mayor. Mobolade, a Nigerian-American businessman and politician, has inspired many through his achievement and aims to drive positive change in his community.
Hon. Dabiri-Erewa applauded each of the newly elected officials for their dedication and commitment to public service. She noted their relentless efforts and urged them to uphold their resilient spirit as they assumed their respective roles. She also prayed for their success and wellbeing as they embarked on this new chapter.
In her message, Dabiri-Erewa highlighted how these Nigerians’ achievements have elevated the image of Nigeria internationally, reinforcing the importance of the Nigerian diaspora as ambassadors of excellence. She emphasized NiDCOM's ongoing support for Nigerians abroad who are committed to making positive impacts in their communities.
Dabiri-Erewa concluded her message by encouraging the elected officials to continue to serve as examples of resilience and determination, underscoring NiDCOM's pride in Nigerians’ achievements around the world.
With the victories of Dr. Owolewa, Barry, Adeyina, and Mobolade, Nigerians in the diaspora continue to make strides, shaping policy, and leaving lasting legacies on an international scale.