The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has called on Nigerians migrating abroad not to disconnect from their homeland but to contribute positively to the nation’s development.
She made the appeal during a Ramadan Lecture organized by No Dull Moment in Islam (NDMI), with the theme: “The Intricacies of Japa Syndrome”, in Abuja.
Hon. Dabiri-Erewa acknowledged that migration is a global phenomenon and a fundamental human right. However, she stressed that the focus should not be on stopping migration but on ensuring that Nigerians abroad stay connected and make a positive impact on their home country.
“Migration is not wrong. Even Prophet Muhammad (SAW) migrated from Makkah to Madinah for a better life, but he returned to rebuild his homeland. Nigerians in the diaspora must emulate this by contributing to the development of Nigeria,” she said.
The NiDCOM Boss highlighted the outstanding achievements of Nigerians abroad, revealing that 70 per cent of Black doctors in the diaspora are Nigerians, while many others are excelling in technology, business, sports, and entertainment.
She cited the example of Morotoluwa Ojomoh, the Nigerian Super Bowl champion, who recently returned home to a grand welcome by the Nigerian Government, and world boxing champion Anthony Joshua, who visited his roots in Sagamu, Ogun State, in December 2024.
Hon. Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the need for a shift from brain drain to brain circulation, where Nigerians abroad acquire skills, knowledge, and networks to contribute to national development.
She noted that the Nigerian diaspora contributes over $90 billion annually in remittances, one of the highest in Africa, proving that the diaspora community remains a critical asset for national development.
While urging Nigerians abroad to be law-abiding and good ambassadors of the country, she encouraged them to invest in Nigeria through mentorship programs, business ventures, and community development projects.
“No matter where you go, come back home. The younger generation has a lot to offer Nigeria. Let us change the narrative from Japa to Impact,” she concluded.
The NiDCOM Boss also underscored the spiritual significance of Ramadan, reminding the audience that patience, hope, and giving back are key tenets of faith.
