NiDCOM Hails Nigerians For Super Bowl, Grammy, Formula Racing Triumphs

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has congratulated Nigerians and people of Nigerian descent on their outstanding achievements across American football, music and motorsport.

In a statement released on Tuesday and e-signed by the Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols at NiDCOM, Abuja, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa praised the Seattle Seahawks for their Super Bowl victory over the New England Patriots, securing a 29-13 win to claim their second Lombardi Trophy.

She highlighted the strong contributions of players with Nigerian roots who played pivotal roles throughout the season and during the championship run.

Linebacker Uchenna Nwosu, born to Nigerian parents, was commended for his influence at the heart of Seattle’s defence, registering more than 100 tackles and seven sacks during the campaign.

Boye Mafe, also of Nigerian descent, was praised for his continued rise, recording five sacks and multiple tackles for loss, while setting a club record for consecutive games with a sack.

Rookie safety Nick Emmanwori impressed in his first season with 81 tackles, 11 pass breakups and one interception. Centre Olusegun Olu Oluwatimi anchored the Seahawks’ offensive line and did not concede a single sack in his starts.

Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who has Nigerian and Sierra Leonean heritage, led the league in receiving yards, scored 10 touchdowns and earned Offensive Player of the Year honours. Backup quarterback Jalen Milroe, also of Nigerian heritage, was recognised for adding depth and versatility to the squad.

Dabiri-Erewa also acknowledged Nigerian representation on the Patriots’ roster, praising offensive lineman Michael Onwenu for starting all 17 games and providing stability on the offensive line.

Beyond American football, the NiDCOM boss celebrated the success of Shaboozey (Collins Obinna Chibueze), Tyler, the Creator (Tyler Gregory Okonma) and Cynthia Erivo (Cynthia Chinasaokwu Onyedinmanazu Amarachukwu Owezuke Echimino Erivo) following their historic wins at the 2026 Grammy Awards. She described their achievements as a reflection of Nigerian creativity, resilience and cultural influence on the world stage.

While recognising the continued global impact of Nigerian-based artistes such as Davido, Burna Boy, Ayra Starr and Wizkid, Dabiri-Erewa stressed that the names, family histories and ancestral origins of the Grammy winners remain unmistakably Nigerian. She said their success represents moments of collective pride for the nation.

The statement also celebrated Nigerian-American racing driver Ugo Ugochukwu, who emerged as champion of the 2026 Formula Regional Oceania Championship after a dominant season in New Zealand.

The 18-year-old recorded four race wins and several podium finishes, ending the campaign 15 points ahead of his nearest rival despite technical challenges during the final weekend.

Dabiri-Erewa noted that Ugochukwu, born in New York to Nigerian supermodel Oluchi Onweagba and Italian fashion designer Luca Orlandi, is set to compete in the 2026 FIA Formula 3 Championship with Campos Racing from March. She described his rise as an inspiration to young Nigerians around the world.

Calling for a broader and more inclusive understanding of national pride, the NiDCOM Chairman urged the media, cultural institutions and Nigerians at home and abroad to celebrate excellence wherever it thrives. She added that embracing diaspora achievements strengthens national unity and enhances Nigeria’s global image.