President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday appointed Abike Dabiri-Erewa as his Senior Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, with immediate effect. Abike’s appointment does not come as a surprise to many because of her experience with diaspora affairs in addition to her many achievements. Abike is also a strong crusader of change and believes in transparency.

Abike’s rise to Success

Abike Kafayat Oluwatoyin Dabiri-Erewa is a classic Nigerian woman from Ikorodu, Lagos State. She was born in Jos, Plateau state and obtained her first degree in English Language from the University of Ife Ile-Ife (Now Obafemi Awolowo University). She proceeded to the University of Lagos where she earned a Postgraduate diploma (PGD) in Mass communication as well as a master’s degree in mass communication. She also studied at the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, USA.

Prior to her election as a member of the Nigeria Federal House of Representatives representing Ikorodu Constituency in Lagos State, She was an anchor of the weekly Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) Sunday Newsline programme where she worked for 15 years. She won a substantial majority in three consecutive elections. During her tenure as a member of the House of Representatives, she stood against the third term bid of former president Olusegun Obasanjo. She was also the chairperson on Diaspora Affairs and was the Chairperson of the House Committee on Media & Publicity.

With a successful rise from an Ace Broadcaster to a politician and now a Senior Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora here are five reasons why Buhari appointed her:

Inclusivity

There have been several debates about inclusivity in president Buhari’s administration. Recently, the wife of an APC chieftain Oluremi Tinubu criticized the government for using conversations around women and inclusivity to campaign and not thinking about them afterwards. Abike’s appointment would be seen as a way of including women in his administration. Abike also happens to be a strong advocate for women.

Experience in Diaspora Affairs

Abike is not new when it comes to handling the affairs of the diaspora. During her tenure as a member of the House of Representatives, she was the chairperson on Diaspora Affairs during former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration. Issues encountered by Nigerians in several countries in the world were raised under her leadership. The Committee intervened to rescue 24 Nigerians slated to be executed in Libya. They made several interventions in Italy, India, China , Czechoslovakia, China, Saudi Arabia, Ghana, Russia, Cyrus, Malaysia among many others. She also ensured that the voices of Nigerians in diaspora was heard.

Willingness to serve

Abike has always shown a keen interest in the well being of Nigerians. As a member of the house of representatives, she stood against the third term bid of the former president Olusegun Obasanjo.

While Anchoring Newsline, she investigated a heart touching story of Mary the miracle baby for eight years. She virtually fostered her and has since been responsible for her education.

Leaving her foot prints behind wherever she works

Abike has won the heart of many Nigerians from her days as a Newsline Anchor till and also as she became a member of the house of representatives. She is a tireless crusader for change. She would always be remembered for her heart felt stories on Newsline and her role in passing the Freedom of Information Bill, which has now been signed into law. Also the Nigerian infant Welfare Scheme Bill, Nigeria with Disabilities Bill, Nigeria’s Bill to amend the railway act to allow private sector and state participation, Nigeria diaspora commission bill and a bill to promote the advancement of Nigerian women and girls.

Awards

She has received several awards from different organizations:

• Congressman Donald M. Payne (US House of Reps) Award and Certificate of special congressional recognition for her unwavering commitment to humanity and serving as Chairwoman for Nigeria House Representatives Committee on Diaspora Affairs.
• Nigerian In Diaspora Organization Globe Awards F.R.N people’s choice Awards.
• This Day 50 Women At 50 Achievers Award.
• Award of Excellence in the Pursuit of Social Justice for all.
• OAU @ 50 Ife; Merit Award for Excellence in recognition of her Immense Contribution to Political & Economic Development of the Nation.