The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar has emphasised that the Nigerians diaspora are not just as remitters, but investors, innovators and global ambassadors for the country.
Tuggar who disclosed this on Tuesday lauded the leadership of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri- Erewa, for executing innovative programmes that not only connect the diasporans with opportunities at home but also project Nigeria’s image positively on the global stage.
The Minister who was on strategic working visit to the Commission hailed NIDCOM for its exceptional work in promoting diaspora engagement, which described it as a critical pillar in the implementation of Federal Government’s “4Ds” agenda (Development, Democracy, Demography and Diaspora).
He said the 4Ds framework is a strategic blueprint to address Africa’s pressing challenges: from strengthening democratic institutions, driving industrial growth for economic and food security, to harnessing demographic potential through targeted partnerships, which he recognises the indispensable role of NiDCOM.
Tuggar highlighted need for constructive dialogue with all Nigerians in diaspora, to correct misconceptions and showcase progress, as well as, encourage younger Nigerian diasporas to invest homewards; citing India’s “Neo India” initiative as a model for proactive diaspora outreach.
As contained in a statement released by the Commission, the Minister further praised NiDCOM for its operational skills, noting that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs now ranks first among federal ministries for rapid response, thanks to the cordial collaboration with NiDCOM. 
In response, Dabiri-Erewa outlined NiDCOM’s achievements, including the National Diaspora Day and National Diaspora Merit Awards, establishment of the National Diaspora Policy (set for review next year).
The Diaspora Data Mapping Portal, Diaspora Housing Mortgage, the Diaspora Home and Abroad Housing platform, the creation of State Diaspora Focal Point Officers (SDFPOs) across all 36 states in Nigeria.
Also, Presidential Townhall Meetings, the Badagry Door of Return Festival, the Homestrings Initiative, the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit, and the Quarterly Lecture Series, among others as mechanisms to have an effective diaspora engagement.
She also cited the diaspora-led medical missions, philanthropy and investments, while calling for more diaspora desks in government agencies, a standard work accommodation and increased funding to sustain its objectives.
The NiDCOM Boss thanked the Foreign Affairs Minister, for swift interventions during the Ghana and the Central African Republic evacuations, which have helped protect Nigerians in the diaspora and boost the country’s image.
At the meeting both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and NiDCOM agreed to place diaspora engagement at the heart of the Renewed Hope Agenda and Nigeria’s long-term development strategy.
