Dabiri Erewa Hails Australia for Honouring Indigenous Heritage for 50 Years

Dabiri Erewa Hails Australia for Honouring Indigenous Heritage for 50 Years
Says Culture Is the Foundation of Nation Building
Says Nigeria Must Preserve Its Culture

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has described culture as the foundation of nation building, saying countries that preserve and celebrate their heritage are better positioned for sustainable development.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that Dabiri-Erewa made the remarks while speaking as the special guest of honour at a reception hosted by the Australian High Commission in Abuja to commemorate the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week, Australia’s annual celebration of the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

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She commended Australia for consistently recognising its Indigenous communities over the past five decades, describing the initiative as a model worthy of emulation.

“I am honoured to stand alongside Australia in recognising the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” she said.

Speaking from her perspective as NiDCOM chairman, Dabiri-Erewa said she attended the event not only as a representative of the Nigerian government but also as someone who understands the importance of resilience, cultural identity and community.

She noted that an exhibition displayed during the event resonated deeply with her, as many of the photographs reflected experiences similar to those of indigenous communities in Nigeria and across the world.

Dabiri Erewa Hails Australia for Honouring Indigenous Heritage for 50 Years

Referring to the Aboriginal English word “Deadly,” which means strong, proud and excellent, she said it appropriately reflected the significance of the 50-year milestone being celebrated.

According to her, Australia’s commitment to preserving the culture, language and leadership of its First Nations people demonstrates that national development is stronger when every community is recognised and valued.

“The way Australia has created space to celebrate First Nations culture, language and leadership is something we admire. It teaches us that nation building must include everyone and that the wisdom of First Peoples and ancestral communities is invaluable national capital,” she said.

Dabiri-Erewa noted that Nigeria, with more than 250 ethnic groups and diverse indigenous traditions, shares similar cultural richness.

“Without culture, you are empty. When you lose your culture, you lose everything,” she stated.

She also highlighted this year’s NAIDOC Week theme, saying it reflects the need to empower young Indigenous professionals who are making significant contributions in sectors such as healthcare, technology, law, sports and the creative industry.

Drawing a comparison with Nigerians in the diaspora, she said many young Nigerians continue to excel globally while remaining connected to their cultural roots.

“Our responsibility as leaders is to clear the path for them to thrive,” she added.

Also speaking, the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Leilani Bin Juda, said the relationship between Australia and Nigeria extends beyond diplomacy and trade to shared values, cultural exchange and enduring people-to-people ties.

She noted that although both countries are different in many ways, they share a common appreciation for culture, identity and community.

“Nigeria and Australia are very different countries in many respects, but we share an understanding of the importance of culture, community and identity,” she said.

Bin Juda added that both nations continue to strengthen their friendship through mutual respect, investment, trade and cooperation across various sectors.

The event featured a screening of Gurrumul, an award-winning documentary on the life of the late Indigenous Australian singer-songwriter Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu, who was born blind and remains Australia’s most commercially successful First Nations artist.

NAIDOC Week is celebrated annually to recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, with this year’s edition marking its 50th anniversary.