President Goodluck Jonathan, has reiterated the determination of his administration to ensure that more Nigerians in Diaspora get involved in the development of their fatherland.

Jonathan gave this assurance at a dinner in honour of Nigerians in the Diaspora, held at the Banquet hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The Nigerians were in the country for the 6

th Diaspora Day celebrations, tagged: “Diaspora Nigerians: Agents of Investment and Development”.

The president, who was represented by Vice President Namadi Sambo, urged them not to relent in their efforts to make valuable contributions toward national development.

“Like most developing countries in the world, Nigeria must leverage on the huge human capital of our nationals living abroad to impact on the development process at home.

“Our ultimate goal is to engage Nigerians with the requisite knowledge expertise and financial acumen to join in the development of the Nigerian state irrespective of their country of abode,” he said.

While assuring them that his administration would continue to sustain their partnership, Jonathan said government was looking forward to receiving their recommendations.

“All hands must be on deck to realise the goals enshrined in the transformation agenda.

“I wish to assure you of our unalloyed commitment to transform this country. We remain resolute in our chosen path in doing all that is necessary to achieve this goal.

“We will continue to create the enabling environment that would allow all those who desire the space to join in our national development endeavours.

“Our doors remain open to useful, patriotic and constructive suggestions that will assist us in bringing the dividends of democracy to the populace thereby transforming their standard of living and wellbeing,” he further stressed.

President Jonathan commended the Diasporas for their continued interest in the affairs of the country and saluted them for their courage.

In his remark, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim congratulated the Diasporas for a successful week long of activities, urging them to do more for their beloved fatherland.

In her thought provoking presentation, a 13-year old visually impaired author, Miss Adeife Adeniran, appealed for the strict implementation of the ideas and discussions that came out of the conference.

She advocated for the active participation of youths in future conferences.

Cultural troupes from the six geopolitical zones of the country performed to the delight of the audience at the event.