Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the European Union, has convened a high-level stakeholders’ meeting to review and strengthen the implementation of Nigeria’s National Diaspora Policy 2021.
The strategic session, held in Abuja under the Standing Committee on Diaspora Matters (SCDM), brought together key government agencies, development partners, and civil society groups to assess progress, identify gaps, and chart actionable pathways for a more structured and results-driven diaspora engagement framework.
Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, stressed the need to move beyond rhetoric to tangible outcomes, described the Nigerian diaspora as a critical development partner. She noted that diaspora contributions extend beyond remittances to investment, innovation, and global influence.
“The diaspora is not just a community abroad, but a force for progress and development,” she said, calling for deliberate strategies to harness its potential.
Dabiri-Erewa acknowledged funding constraints but reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to sustained engagement, emphasizing the need for stronger legislative backing, including diaspora voting and the establishment of a Diaspora Investment Trust Fund. She also highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the Diaspora Data Portal, National Diaspora Day celebrations, and an upcoming Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference in Canada.
Representing IOM Nigeria Chief of Mission, Sharon Dimanche, Ms. Ukamaka Anyanechi underscored the importance of coordinated and institutionalized diaspora engagement. She noted that through EU-funded migration programmes, IOM is supporting Nigeria in strengthening policy frameworks, improving coordination, and enhancing diaspora data systems.
Also speaking, EU Programme Officer Ron Hendrix described the Nigerian diaspora as a vital bridge between Nigeria and the global community, contributing not only through remittances but also through skills transfer, investments, and international advocacy.
On the legislative front, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs, Aniekan Bassey, represented by Clerk Abubakar Adam, reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to diaspora engagement. He emphasized the need to protect Nigerians abroad while strengthening institutional coordination to fully harness diaspora contributions.
Similarly, Chairman of the House Committee on Diaspora, Tochukwu Okere, represented by Dr. Ademola Adewale Taofeek, highlighted the importance of measurable outcomes in migration governance, noting that while remittances remain significant, Nigeria must leverage intellectual capital and global networks.
Other stakeholders, including the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, civil society groups, and state diaspora focal officers from Abia, Lagos, and Cross River states, contributed to discussions, emphasizing inclusive policies and stronger coordination mechanisms.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to develop practical frameworks that will enhance diaspora engagement, strengthen migration governance, and maximize the socio-economic contributions of Nigerians abroad.
