Diaspora PDP Members Launch PDP Diaspora Initiative in Style

It has happened as planned! The PDP Diaspora Initiative (PDI), a US-based registered non-profit organization, was officially inaugurated during a gathering of members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Houston, Texas, USA on Saturday, August 4, 2018.

“I thank everyone that contributed in one way or another to the huge success of PDP Diaspora Initiative’s inauguration,” PDI Founder and National Chair Hon. Victoria Pamugo said in a public address to the members.

“I can feel the energy in the room tonight as we have our members from Massachusetts, New York, Maryland, Texas, Michigan and other places in attendance,” Hon. Pamugo said.

The event was attended by PDP members from several parts of the USA, as well as other countries such as Canada. It was a happy reunion for many members who have not met before.

PDI has its members in all parts of the world, establishing its chapters in countries including Austria, Canada, Germany, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden and United Kingdom.

Speaking to the mandate, mission and vision of the organization, PDI National Publicity Secretary Dr. Chidi Igwe said the organization was formed:

• to take concrete actions to achieve social, economic, civic and political transformation in Nigeria;
• to champion, support, promote and pursue principles that will encourage Nigerians in diaspora to actively participate in civic, social, economic and political development of Nigeria;
• to educate, sensitize and inform Nigerians in diaspora on the need of getting involved in programs, projects and activities that will improve the standard of living and means of livelihood of Nigerians;
• to organize and take concrete actions to ensure that only officials that will replicate what we all enjoy in the United States and other advanced economies in the form of dividends of democracy are elected into positions of authority;
• to educate the Nigerian people of their civic responsibilities, such as participating in the electoral process by registering for PVCs and casting their votes to elect their own leaders;
• to be the voice for the voiceless by promoting social advocacy, expanding educational and literacy opportunities and supplies for all Nigerians, especially the less privileged;
• to hold our leaders accountable, participate in campaigns aimed at encouraging Nigerians to vote for political candidates that will deliver on their promises;
• to promote good citizenship and patriotism;
• to promote issues concerning women, children and youth in Nigeria and other countries where issues concerning them are relegated to the background;
• to establish strategic partnerships with other organizations, governments and parastatals that will be beneficial in achieving our mandate, mission and vision; and,
• to solicit and raise funds to help in achieving our objectives and in the furtherance of our mission.

“The energy is high,” a member, Mr. Ike Onyia said. “I see class and distinction … I see numerous victories at the polls … I see PDP taking back Aso Rock,” Mr. Onyia said.

“Our inauguration came with a lot of excitement, that will last in our memories for a very long time. The event was spectacular and one of its kind,” PDI National Organizing Secretary Mr. Leonard Ozoagu said.

Some of the highlights of the eventful evening was the swearing in of PDI officers, including its national leadership and management team, state and city coordinators.

“You have been empowered to be the face as well as servants of this great organization,” Hon. Pamugo said.

“PDI is all about transparency and accountability. We are here to make sure things are done the right way. And the only way we can achieve our objectives is by everyone pulling together,” Hon. Pamugo said.

“We are a hands-on organization and, through your service, lives will be changed in Nigeria, schools will be built, health care will be provided, job opportunities will be created, and above all, we will bring a responsible government that will care for the people rather than their personal pockets,” Hon. Pamugo said.

The event concluded with joy and merriment as both members and officers are pumped up for the great task of making Nigeria a better, safer and stronger country for everyone.

“It was a night filled with laughter, hugs, photography, videos, assorted food and drinks. Our master of ceremony Chief Jude Ozoagu was off the hook. Music was all you can dance. The oath of office …, you needed to have been there,” Mr. Ozoagu said.