The City of Houston, Texas, has officially designated July 5th as “Ijaw Convention Day.”
The recognition was formalized through a proclamation signed by Mayor John Whitmire and presented during the Ijaw National Congress of the Americas (INC-A) award ceremony and the unveiling of the Ijaw Cultural and Heritage Centre.
Mayor Whitmire praised the Ijaw diaspora in Houston and across the United States for their dynamic contributions to key sectors such as business, education, energy, healthcare, and culture, particularly within the Greater Houston area.
Meanwhile, the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has lauded the declaration.
In a statement, Dabiri-Erewa said the declaration is a testament to the influence and cultural presence of Nigerian communities abroad, as well as the increasing global appreciation of Nigeria’s diverse heritage.
“This is a proud and historic moment,” she stated, adding that the recognition reflects the growing importance of the Nigerian Diaspora and aligns with NiDCOM’s mission to deepen connections between Nigerians at home and those abroad.
She noted that the official recognition of Ijaw Day is not only a celebration of cultural identity but also a powerful call to action for increased collaboration and engagement between the Diaspora and local institutions.
Dabiri-Erewa also emphasized that the recognition offers an opportunity to foster closer ties with state governments—particularly Bayelsa State—and to encourage programs that harness the expertise and influence of Nigerians living overseas for national growth.
She extended her congratulations to the Ijaw community and their leaders in Houston, commending their commitment and advocacy which made the milestone possible.
NiDCOM reaffirmed its support for initiatives that promote Nigerian culture and advance the interests of Nigerian communities across the globe.
