The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has called for a more strategic approach to migration communication and diaspora engagement to mitigate the negative impacts of the “Japa” phenomenon on Nigeria’s development.
Speaking at the 6th International Conference on Communication and Development in Africa, held at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Dabiri-Erewa, represented by Dr. Sule Yakubu Bassi, Secretary to the Commission, emphasized the need to shift the narrative from “brain drain” to “brain gain” and “brain circulation.”
“Instead of focusing only on the challenges of Japa, we should ask: How can governments communicate migration policies better? What role does the media play in shaping the conversation? How can the diaspora contribute beyond remittances? What policies will encourage skilled Nigerians to return?” she queried.
She highlighted that in the last five years, diaspora remittances have contributed about $90 billion to Nigeria’s economy. However, she urged for increased diaspora involvement beyond financial contributions, including investment, mentorship, and skills transfer.
Dabiri-Erewa, who was the keynote speaker and chairman of the event, also called on the media to ensure balanced reportage of migration, capturing both its benefits and challenges.
Other notable speakers at the event echoed similar concerns.
Hajia Binta Adamu Bello, Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), represented by Ijeoma Amugo Esq., Director of Legal Services, cautioned against irregular migration and human trafficking, highlighting NAPTIP’s five-pillar approach: Policy, Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnership.
Hon. Shuaibu Sani, Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth, representing the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to youth empowerment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Similarly, Paola Pace, Chief of Mission at the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Nigeria, represented by Ana Medeiros, called for safer and legal migration routes while recognizing migration as a fundamental human right.
Amb. Zissmos Vergos, Deputy Head of Delegation for the European Union and ECOWAS, acknowledged that migration is a natural process but stressed the need for structured policies that ensure mutual benefits. He urged the media to dispel unrealistic expectations about life abroad.
Prof. Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, Vice Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, noted the rising number of young Africans seeking better opportunities abroad and commended the Institute of Strategic Development Communication (ISDEVCOM) for facilitating these discussions.
Prof. Emmanuel S. Dandaura, ISDEVCOM Chairman, described the conference theme as timely, given the increasing rate of migration. He emphasized the role of strategic communication in shaping Africa’s migration narrative.
The conference, organized by ISDEVCOM, brought together academics, policymakers, and media professionals to explore Africa’s migration challenges and opportunities and how effective communication can enhance diaspora engagement.
