Abiodun Odunuga, Nigerian international business development expert has been honored with the National Diaspora Merit Award for contributions to entrepreneurship, education and technology.
- +Abiodun Odunuga honoured for work in entrepreneurship, tech
- +“This recognition is not just a personal honour but a call to greater service.”
The award recognises Odunuga’s role in fostering strategic partnerships between Nigeria and Europe aimed at driving socioeconomic development.
The award recognises Odunuga’s role in fostering strategic partnerships between Nigeria and Europe aimed at driving socioeconomic development.
The award was presented during the National Diaspora Merit Award Ceremony, held recently at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, and organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
Organisers cited his efforts to connect Nigerian businesses, institutions and startups with European counterparts to expand trade and investment opportunities.
Based in Paris, France, Odunuga was recognised for his exceptional leadership in mobilizing investments, facilitating international partnerships, promoting entrepreneurship, supporting educational exchange, and creating opportunities that strengthen economic and institutional collaboration between Nigeria and European stakeholders.
A graduate of Covenant University, Nigeria, and a master’s degree holder in Development Practice from Sciences Po, Paris.
Odunuga is the chief executive officer of Bridge and Value, a Paris-based advisory firm that facilitates cross-border market expansion between Africa and Europe.
He is also the co-founder of Friends of Nigeria Europe, one of the foremost Nigerian diaspora organisations championing strategic engagement between Nigerians abroad and their home country.
With over two decades of international experience, he has successfully led initiatives spanning trade promotion, investment facilitation, diaspora engagement, entrepreneurship development and public-private partnerships, working alongside governments, international development organisations and private sector institutions to drive inclusive economic growth.
Speaking after receiving the award, Odunuga expressed gratitude to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and the Federal Government of Nigeria for recognising the contributions of Nigerians living abroad.
“This recognition is not just a personal honour but a call to greater service.”
“It reinforces my commitment to building stronger bridges between Nigeria and the international community, unlocking opportunities for investment, innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable development that will benefit generations of Nigerians.”
Odunuga is a prominent figure in the Nigerian diaspora community. The National Diaspora Merit Award honors individuals who have advanced Nigeria’s interests abroad through innovation, business leadership and educational initiatives.
The ceremony was graced by Oluremi Tinubu, first lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who was the special guest of honour and was ably represented by Nana Shettima, wife of the vice president.
Other dignitaries in attendance included Senator George Akume, secretary to the Government of the Federation; Sola Enikanolaiye, minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Iziaq Salako, minister of State for Health and Social Welfare; and Tochukwu Okere, chairman, House Committee on Diaspora Affairs among others.
The event was hosted by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, chairman and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission.
