Ayoola Lawal, former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Scandinavia, has congratulated Kenneth Oguzie, former National Secretary of APC Scandinavia, on his conferment of the 2026 National Diaspora Merit Award for Leadership Development by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
Lawal described the honour as a well-deserved recognition of Oguzie’s exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to community development, and outstanding contributions to Nigeria and the global diaspora. He said the award reflects years of dedicated service, visionary leadership, and a passion for advancing the interests of Nigerians abroad.
He noted that the NiDCOM recognition is the latest in a distinguished record of international accomplishments. As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Africa Canada Trade and Investment Venture (ACTIV), Oguzie has played a pivotal role in promoting trade, investment, and economic cooperation between Canada and Africa while strengthening partnerships between the African continent and its global diaspora.
Lawal further highlighted that Oguzie’s contributions have earned him recognition beyond the Nigerian community. In 2021, he received the Most Inspiring Immigrants in Eastern Canada Award for his exceptional contributions to immigrant integration, community development, and professional excellence across Canada’s Atlantic provinces. He has also been honoured by several community organisations, private-sector institutions, and civil society groups for his sustained impact on entrepreneurship, leadership, and social development.
More recently, Oguzie was selected to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Commonwealth Leaders Dialogue Canada 2025, a prestigious leadership programme that brings together outstanding leaders from across Canada and the Commonwealth to strengthen ethical leadership, collaboration, and public service through experiential learning.
According to Lawal, these achievements demonstrate that genuine leadership is measured not by titles but by the ability to create opportunities, build enduring institutions, and leave communities stronger than they were found.
He said the NiDCOM award is more than a personal achievement; it is a national recognition of years of visionary leadership, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to advancing Nigeria’s interests through meaningful engagement with the global diaspora.
Lawal added that the honour sends a powerful message to Nigerians around the world that geographical distance does not diminish one’s ability to contribute meaningfully to national development. Instead, he said, it reinforces the fact that integrity, consistency, and purposeful leadership remain powerful drivers of progress regardless of where one resides.
Expressing confidence in Oguzie’s continued impact, Lawal said the recognition would inspire a new generation of diaspora leaders to pursue excellence, strengthen international partnerships, and contribute even more actively to Nigeria’s development and global reputation.
Congratulating Oguzie once again, Lawal wished him continued wisdom, good health, and greater accomplishments in the years ahead.
He concluded by stating that Nigeria is proud, the diaspora is inspired, and the nation’s future is brighter because of leaders like Kenneth Oguzie, who continue to build bridges, empower communities, and exemplify servant leadership on the global stage.
