The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has launched the Connected Diaspora x DOWA Start Up Challenge as well as Connected Diaspora Flagship Event 2025.
This is in a renewed effort to mobilise Nigerian talents globally and deepen diaspora engagement for national development.
NIDCOM Chairman, Abike Debiri-Erewa, at a News Conference described both initiatives as timely, transformative and strategically positioned to harness the creativity, expertise and entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerians across the world.
According to the statement released by the Commission, she added that the Connected Diaspora x DOWA Start Up Challenge, themed: “Building, Breaking and Believing in Nigeria, is designed to energise diaspora innovators.
And also to promote knowledge transfer, enterprise development and strategic investment aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s rapidly expanding economy.
With cash prizes of up to One million naira the challenge seeks to spotlight exceptional ideas and support impactful ventures developed by Nigerians abroad, reinforcing the Federal Government’s broader commitment to engaging the diaspora as crucial partners in national progress.
Dabiri-Erewa further announced that the Connected Diaspora Flagship Event will hold in Lagos on 19th December, 2025, bringing entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, tech leaders and strategic partners together for high level conversations on Nigeria’s future.
Revealing that the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, slated as Special Guest of Honour, will address the importance of Govt and diaspora collaboration in accelerating national development.
While stated that notable contributors drawn from the diaspora and Nigeria’s entrepreneurship ecosystem will enrich the discussions and contribute to shaping pathways for meaningful engagement.
NiDCOM extended heartfelt appreciation to its partners whose support remains invaluable in driving the success of the initiative, stating that their commitment continues to enhance the potential of the Nigerian diaspora and promote economic advancement.
The Commission further called on stakeholders across the public and private sectors to join in this noble effort and seize the abundant opportunities available for collaboration, innovation and nation building.
The Commission encouraged young Nigerians and diaspora returnees to participate actively in the Start Up Challenge, noting that entries to contest close on Dec 12, 2025. It also announced that the December event will include a Diaspora Talent Career and Internship Fair designed to connect diaspora returnees with internship opportunities provided by DOWA partner organisations, thereby strengthening talent exchange and promoting national development.
Highlights of the programme includes:
i. Call for Applications for the Start up Challenge: Nov. 18 – Dec. 12, 2025. ii. Public Voting (Instagram): Dec 13–17, 2025
iii. Winner Announcement: Dec. 18, 2025 iv. Final Winner Presentation at the Event at the JK Randle Centre on Dec 19, 2025.
Registration details are as attached.
