In a landmark initiative to strengthen ties with the African diaspora, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and the National Population Commission (NPC) have partnered to document descendants of the Historic African Diaspora (HAD) with ancestral links to Nigeria.
At a strategic meeting in Abuja, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, emphasized the significance of this collaboration in enhancing diaspora engagement and fostering meaningful reintegration. She noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes purposeful diaspora engagement for national development.
“This effort is aimed at tracing these special diasporas to their origins, celebrating shared heritage, and creating opportunities for mutual growth,” Dabiri-Erewa stated.
She added that advanced data mapping techniques would be employed to identify and document African diaspora descendants reconnecting with Nigeria.
Dabiri-Erewa also encouraged members of the African Ancestry Reunion delegation to embrace Nigeria as their home, invest in its development, and participate in cultural events such as the annual Badagry Door of Return Festival for a transformative experience.
In his remarks,Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, Chairman of NPC, reiterated the commission’s commitment to the initiative, revealed plans to introduce new census modules designed to capture data on descendants of HAD with Nigerian ancestry. He assured that the NPC would provide official documentation, including certificates and legal frameworks, to recognize them as Nigerians.
Dr. Gina Paige, Co-founder and President of African Ancestry, expressed her passion for helping African descendants reconnect with their roots, a mission she has pursued for nearly 22 years. She emphasized that many of these individuals wish not only to trace their ancestry but also to live and invest in Nigeria.
The 15-member delegation, led by individuals of Fulani-Hausa ancestry, appealed to the NPC and other relevant government agencies to facilitate the issuance of legal documents, such as birth certificates and Nigerian passports, for diaspora descendants seeking official recognition.
Mr. Fidelis Anosike, Chairman of Folio Group and Publisher of Daily Times Newspaper, commended the NiDCOM-NPC collaboration, described it as a visionary project that would reshape global narratives about Nigeria. He underscored the importance of data-driven storytelling and referenced his upcoming publication, The Nigerian Grand Book: Magnum Opus, which will chronicle Nigeria’s rich culture, history, and achievements.
The partnership between NiDCOM and NPC mark a significant step in bridging the gap between Nigeria and its global diaspora, offering descendants of the African diaspora a pathway to reconnect with their heritage and contribute to national development.
