Nigeria at 65: Diaspora community in Poland pushes dialogue on economic reform, national unity
The Nigerian community in Poland joined friends and partners to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary with a conference themed “Emerging trends and current reforms influencing the Nigerian economy”, held on Friday, October 3, in Lublin.
Organised by Diaspora Events, the yearly gathering, convened by Niyi Aderibigbe, founder and president of the organisation, brought together diplomats, policymakers, academics, and community leaders to reflect on Nigeria’s development journey and the role of its diaspora in global progress.
Aderibigbe underscored the importance of continuous dialogue between Nigeria and its diaspora, describing the platform as a bridge for collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Delivering opening remarks on behalf of the Mayor of Lublin, Krzysztof Żuk, Deputy Mayor Tomasz Fulara commended the Nigerian community for its contribution to the city’s cultural diversity and economic growth.
He said diversity strengthens social bonds and community development.
Lawal Saka, head of chancery at the Nigerian embassy in Warsaw, representing Samuel Amuh, minister/chargé d’affaires, spoke on Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu, highlighting opportunities in innovation, investment, and the critical role of the diaspora in driving national transformation.
Other sessions at the conference explored key development issues.
Anna Gola of Santander Bank discussed “Barriers to Accessing Financial Services in Poland,” highlighting the need for inclusive banking systems and skills training for migrants.
Anna Szadkowska and Tetiana Makushak of AHF Poland led a conversation on “Migration and Health – From Margins to Mainstream,” calling for equitable access to healthcare for migrants.
Emmanuel Kalejaiye, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation Poland (NIDOP), delivered an inspiring address on uniting Nigerians abroad for national progress and global impact.
The event, moderated by Malwina Bakalarska, concluded with networking, a symbolic cutting of the independence cake, and closing reflections.
Aderibigbe said the 65th anniversary celebration reaffirmed Nigeria’s unity and shared purpose.
“Our strength lies in unity, our growth in collaboration, and our future in shared purpose,” he said, echoing President Tinubu’s Independence Day message urging Nigerians to believe in the nation’s boundless potential.
Participants agreed that the Lublin conference demonstrated the power of partnership and dialogue in advancing both Nigerian and Polish communities toward a more inclusive and innovative future.
