A former beneficiary of Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa’s educational support programs has come forward to clarify what he describes as a major misunderstanding surrounding her stance toward the Igbo community.
Anaele Chima Sylvanus, an Igbo man from Imo State, strongly defended the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), stating that Dabiri-Erewa’s actions have consistently reflected inclusivity, compassion, and selflessness — particularly toward the Igbo people.
In a statement shared via email, Sylvanus emphasized that he and his brothers were direct recipients of Dabiri-Erewa’s long-term scholarships, which funded both their undergraduate and master’s education.
“Despite being Igbos and Christians, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa supported us for over a decade,” he wrote. “She believed in our brilliance, our future, and our potential for innovation.”
He further revealed that her philanthropic efforts were not always welcomed by some members of her Yoruba constituency in Ikorodu, Lagos, yet she remained undeterred in her mission to empower young Nigerians, regardless of tribe or religion.
“She acted with selfless sacrifice because of her love for the Igbo people,” Sylvanus added. “Today, I can boldly say that she was led by the Lord Jesus to be an angel to our community in Ikorodu.”
Sylvanus expressed disappointment at recent public criticism aimed at Dabiri-Erewa, asserting that such portrayals misrepresent her true intentions and track record of service.
“Attacking her character is not just unfair — it’s a distortion of her legacy. This is not about tribalism; it’s about honoring the truth and her humanistic contributions,” he concluded.
Photographs and personal records, according to Sylvanus, serve as proof of her long-standing commitment to the Igbo community.
Igbo Beneficiary Defends Abike Dahiru-Erewa Over Tribalism Allegations
