Nigeria has recognised expatriate investors and professionals as important contributors to national development, citing their businesses, expertise and investments as drivers of economic growth.

The recognition was made at The Expatriates Business Awards, TEBA 2026, held in Abuja on Thursday night, where notable members of the expatriate community were honoured for their contributions to job creation, knowledge transfer and cultural exchange in Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, the Director of Awards, Odunola Abayomi, said TEBA was established to celebrate individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the country after moving across borders.

She said the initiative was designed to recognise men and women who “crossed borders, embraced Nigeria, built businesses, created opportunities and in their own unique ways contributed to the growth and development of our great country.”

Abayomi described the awards ceremony as an occasion focused on recognising the contributions of expatriates, businesses and communities to Nigeria’s development.

According to her, “Tonight is not just another evening of awards. It is an evening of recognition, appreciation, celebration and gratitude.

“Every award presented tonight is more than a trophy. It is a public salute to individuals, organisations and communities whose contributions have strengthened the Nigerian economy.”

She said expatriate investors and professionals who feel recognised and appreciated are more likely to expand their investments and increase their contributions to Nigeria, which they have chosen to call home.

Abayomi also highlighted the support received from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, saying their backing demonstrated that TEBA was consistent with Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic engagement with the international community.

“Foreign Affairs represents Nigeria’s gateway to the world. It is where diplomacy is cultivated and bridges are built between nations. The support we have received demonstrates that TEBA is not simply an awards ceremony,” she said.

The Director of Awards expressed appreciation to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for supporting the initiative.

She also singled out the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dr. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Mahmud Adam Kambari, describing them as “heroes behind the success of TEBA 2026.

“Behind every successful event is a team who may not stand on the stage, but whose decisions and goodwill make the stage possible. The TEBA team says to you: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you,” she said.

Abayomi further acknowledged the support of Nigerbird Engineering, NCAA, FAAN, NAMA, Xejet, NAHCO and KAS Prints.

She said the backing from the organisations reflected a belief “that Nigeria is stronger when it welcomes talent, investment, enterprise and culture from across the world.”

Source:leadership.ng