MFA, NIDCOM strengthens partnership for better Diaspora engagement

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Dr Dunoma Umar Ahmed, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to collaborating with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) to fulfil its mandate through effective communication and advocacy.

Dr. Ahmed gave the assurance during a strategic engagement with NiDCOM’s management team, led by Abike Dabiri- Erewa, in Abuja recently.

“Diaspora Engagement is an integral component of the 4Ds (Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora) of the Foreign Policy Doctrine of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Ahmed stated.
According to the statement released by the Commission, The Perm Sec commended Abike Dabiri- Erewa for her outstanding leadership, which has positioned NiDCOM on the global stage.

Ahmed expressed the Ministry’s interest in being actively involved in NiDCOM’s Data Mapping Initiative, aimed at creating a comprehensive Data Bank of all Nigerians in the diaspora.

“this initiative will enable strategic planning and engagement with the diaspora to maximise their contributions to national development”, he stated.
Ahmed added that labour migration is a critical area of focus, urging NiDCOM to look at ways to engage and sensitize on legal and structured pathways for Nigerians seeking opportunities through this route.

Dabiri-Erewa expressed gratitude for the visit and extended appreciation to the Ministry for their consistent support and collaborative approach.

She outlined NiDCOM’s achievements and ongoing activities, such as the Nigerian Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS), Diaspora Investment Trust Fund, Diaspora Mortgage Trust Fund, National Diaspora Day/ Merit Award, State Diaspora Focal Point Officers.
The NiDCOM Boss reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to fostering impactful partnerships with government agencies and stakeholders to maximise the potential of the Nigerian diaspora for the country’s growth.

“Through strategic collaborations with the MFA and other partners, we will continue to showcase the remarkable contributions of our diaspora community and position them as a vital force for Nigeria’s development,” she added.

Both institutions pledged to work together to build an inclusive, united, and forward- looking approach to diaspora engagement for National development.