The Federal Government on Thursday in Abuja declared Aug. 24 and 25 as Diaspora Days to recognise Nigerians in Diaspora as important stakeholders in national development.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Secretary to Government of the Federation, Mrs. Ibukun Odusote.

The statement said the days were set aside to create an environment for cross fertilisation of ideas among the Diaspora experts and their Nigerian counterparts, hoping it would lead to proffering solutions to some of the nation's developmental challenges.

According to the statement, the 2015 Diaspora Day celebration will be marked with a National Diaspora Day and Conference with the theme, Diaspora and Nigeria Change Agenda.

“It would serve as a platform for dialogue, interaction and collaboration by Nigerians in Diaspora particularly professionals who have excelled in their various fields of endeavors as health, science, sport and arts, among others.

“The event, slated to hold at the State House Conference Centre, Presidential Villa, Abuja, will be declared opened and closed by President Muhammadu Buhari.”

The statement said invitation could be obtained upon registration online at www.nigeriadiasporaday.com (NAN)

•Photo shows Perm. Sec. Ibukun Odusote.