Abuja, Nigeria — The Group Managing Director of ARCO Group Plc, Engr. Alfred Irabor Okoigun, has called for stronger collaboration between Nigeria’s diaspora and its youth to accelerate innovation in healthcare and national development.
Speaking at the Youth Empowerment Summit of the 2026 National Diaspora Day celebration, Okoigun stressed that harnessing global expertise from Nigerians abroad is critical to transforming the country’s health sector and empowering young people.
Delivering a goodwill message themed “Diaspora Health Advocacy for Nigerian Youth,” he described the health of young Nigerians as a national priority and urged deliberate investment in human capital.
He commended the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), led by its Chairman/CEO, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, for creating a platform that connects young Nigerians with global professionals to share ideas and practical solutions.
“The challenge before us is to ensure that global expertise is not admired from a distance but connected to the aspirations of young Nigerians at home. Brain drain must increasingly become brain circulation,” Okoigun said.
He emphasized that the future of healthcare extends beyond traditional roles, highlighting opportunities in biomedical engineering, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, digital health, and public health as areas where Nigerian youth can compete globally.
Okoigun noted that sustainable development depends on strategic investment in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), adding that ARCO Group has maintained a long-standing commitment to supporting education, skills development, and youth empowerment.
He cited the launch of the ARCO Talent Initiative, delivered in partnership with TAP Inspire, as part of efforts to equip young Nigerians with practical skills, mentorship, and innovation-driven opportunities.
According to him, the initiative was conceived following engagements at the previous National Diaspora Day, demonstrating how partnerships can translate ideas into impactful programmes.
Addressing participants, including students and young professionals, Okoigun urged them to embrace integrity, continuous learning, and problem-solving, stressing that national progress depends on the character and creativity of its people.
“Nigeria needs your curiosity, your ideas, your integrity and your determination—starting today,” he said.
He also encouraged young Nigerians in the diaspora or aspiring to travel abroad to remain connected to their roots, noting that knowledge and experience gained globally should be leveraged to strengthen local communities.
Highlighting the role of diaspora professionals, he pointed to the achievements of Nigerian healthcare experts worldwide as proof of the country’s global competitiveness.
Okoigun further underscored that careers should not only be seen as a means of livelihood but as opportunities to contribute meaningfully to society.
“When the experience of our diaspora is combined with the energy and ambition of our youth, Nigeria will strengthen its healthcare system, create jobs and accelerate national development,” he added.
He reaffirmed that the ARCO Group’s commitment to investing in Nigeria’s youth and called on stakeholders to prioritize partnerships that unlock the potential of the next generation of innovators and leaders.
About The Author
