By Fatima Saka
Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has praised Australia for its sustained commitment to preserving and celebrating Indigenous culture, as the country marks 50 years of NAIDOC Week.
Speaking as Special Guest of Honour at a reception hosted by the Australian High Commission in Abuja, Dabiri-Erewa described culture as the foundation upon which strong nations are built. She commended Australia for consistently recognising the history, achievements, and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
She noted that Nigeria shares similar values, given its rich diversity of over 250 ethnic groups, stressing that cultural identity remains essential to national development.
“As Chairman of NiDCOM, I stand not only as a representative of the Nigerian government but as a sister from another part of the world that understands the strength of resilience, culture, and community,” she said.
Reflecting on an exhibition showcased at the event, Dabiri-Erewa said the photographs resonated deeply with her, highlighting shared experiences among Indigenous communities globally. She also referenced the Aboriginal term “Deadly,” meaning strong, proud, and excellent, as symbolic of the milestone.
According to her, Australia’s dedication to celebrating its First Nations people demonstrates that nations that honour their roots are better positioned to strengthen their future.
“The inclusion of culture, language, and leadership in nation-building is invaluable. Without culture, you are empty. When you lose your culture, you lose everything,” she added.
Dabiri-Erewa further highlighted the significance of this year’s NAIDOC Week theme, noting its focus on empowering young Indigenous professionals. She drew parallels with Nigerian youths in the diaspora who continue to excel globally while maintaining strong cultural ties.
“Our responsibility as leaders is to create opportunities for the next generation to thrive,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Leilani Bin Juda, emphasised that the relationship between Nigeria and Australia extends beyond diplomacy and trade, encompassing shared values, cultural exchange, and strong people-to-people connections.
She noted that both countries are united by their appreciation for diversity and the role culture plays in shaping national identity.
“Nigeria and Australia may differ in many ways, but we share a deep understanding of the importance of culture, community, and identity,” she said, adding that the bilateral relationship continues to grow through cooperation in trade, investment, and other sectors.
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The event featured a screening of Gurrumul, a documentary chronicling the life of Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu, a renowned Indigenous Australian singer-songwriter.
NAIDOC Week is an annual celebration of the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, with this year marking its 50th anniversary.
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