In a pivotal move to unlock the full potential of its global citizens, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and supported by the European Union (EU), has convened a high-level strategic review of the National Diaspora Policy 2021.
This crucial gathering in Abuja brought together key stakeholders to assess progress, identify gaps, forge actionable pathways for more structured, inclusive, results-driven engagement framework with the Nigerian diaspora.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, spearheaded the call to action, urging a shift from mere rhetoric to tangible, measurable outcomes.
She emphatically described the diaspora not just as a community abroad, but as a critical development partner whose contributions extend far beyond remittances to encompass vital investment, knowledge transfer, innovation, and global influence.
“We keep talking about potential, it
is time to harness that potential deliberately and strategically,” she stated, acknowledging funding constraints but stressing the enduring relevance and institutional support for NiDCOM.
Echoing this sentiment, Ms. Sharon Dimanche, Chief of Mission, IOM Nigeria (represented by Ukamaka Anyanechi), highlighted the Nigerian diaspora as one of the nation’s most significant yet underleveraged development assets.
contributions across healthcare, ICT, academia, entrepreneurship, and the creative economy.
Through the EU-funded Support to Migration Governance Programme, IOM is actively working with NiDCOM to strengthen institutional frameworks and coordination mechanisms, emphasizing that “Harnessing these contributions in a structured and institutionally coordinated manner is essential for sustainable development outcomes.”
Ron Hendrix, Programme Officer representing the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, further reinforced the global significance of the Nigerian diaspora.
socio-economic transformation.”
Hendrix noted that while remittances are crucial for households, the diaspora’s impact extends to invaluable skills transfer, investments, and global advocacy that elevate Nigeria’s international standing.
Legislative backing for diaspora-focused initiatives was recurring theme. Senator Aniekan Bassey, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non- Governmental Organizations (represented by Abubakar Adam), reaffirmed the National Assembly’s
commitment, calling the diaspora “one of our greatest national assets.”
Similarly, Hon. Tochukwu Okere, Chairman of the House Committee on
Diaspora (represented by Dr. Ademola Adewale Taofeek), emphasized the need for measurable outcomes in migration governance, noting that “Migration, when well governed, is a catalyst for development.”
He urged Nigeria to look beyond financial
inflows to harness intellectual capital and global networks.
Catherine Imaji Udida, Director of Migrants Affairs, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, advocated for inclusive policies that reflect the diverse realities of all Nigerians abroad, including those in short-term or irregular
situations.
The meeting also showcased ongoing initiatives such as the Diaspora Data Portal, National Diaspora Day (July 25), and the upcoming Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference in Canada.
State Diaspora Focal Point Officers from Abia, Lagos, and Cross River States highlighted successful sub-national engagement efforts, urging other states to follow suit.
This collaborative strategic review marks a significant step towards a more robust and effective framework for diaspora engagement, poised to transform Nigeria’s development trajectory by fully integrating its global citizens into the national progress agenda.