Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has commended Governor Josh Stein of North Carolina, USA, for officially designating June 14 as “Igbo Day” in recognition of the cultural and civic contributions of the Igbo community in the state.
In a statement issued by NIDCOM’s Head of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa described the move as a testament to the strong impact and presence of the Igbo people in the United States.
She praised the North Carolina Governor for acknowledging the Igbo community’s influence, unity, and contributions, which she said have enriched the state’s multicultural identity.
According to her, the proclamation highlights the dedication of Nigerian immigrants to civic engagement and cultural preservation.
“This recognition is not only well-deserved but also a proud moment for Nigeria. It shows how impactful our citizens are, even beyond the shores of this country,” she stated.
Dabiri-Erewa also lauded the Igbo community in North Carolina for being exemplary ambassadors of Nigeria and for upholding their cultural values while contributing positively to their host society.
She encouraged Nigerians across the globe to emulate such efforts by engaging constructively in their local communities and upholding Nigeria’s image, regardless of their ethnic backgrounds or regions of origin.
The declaration of Igbo Day marks another milestone in the celebration of African heritage in the U.S., with North Carolina joining a growing number of states honoring the legacies and cultures of the African diaspora.
Governor Stein, in his official proclamation, emphasized the Igbo community’s decades-long presence in the state—dating back over 50 years, as well as their commitment to civic unity and cultural advocacy.
The proclamation also paid tribute to the Igbo Day Festival Organization, which held its first cultural event on July 10, 2022.
