The meeting brought together members of the Standing Committee on Diaspora Matters and other stakeholders to assess progress made so far, identify gaps, and outline practical steps for more effective diaspora participation in national development.

Dabiri-Erewa Calls for Action-Oriented Engagement

NiDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, stressed the need to move beyond discussions to measurable outcomes.

She described Nigerians in the diaspora as critical partners in national development whose contributions extend beyond remittances to include investment, expertise, innovation, and global influence.

While acknowledging funding challenges, she assured that NiDCOM remains committed to coordinating diaspora affairs nationwide.

Dabiri-Erewa also advocated stronger legal frameworks to support diaspora engagement, including diaspora voting rights, the establishment of a Diaspora Investment Trust Fund, and improved financing systems.

She commended states such as Lagos, Abia, and Cross River for creating diaspora-focused structures and encouraged others to adopt similar initiatives.

Among current efforts, she highlighted the Diaspora Data Portal, National Diaspora Day celebrated every July 25, and preparations for a Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference in Canada.

IOM and EU Stress Diaspora Potential

IOM’s Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Sharon Dimanche, represented by Ukamaka Anyanechi, said Nigerians abroad remain one of the country’s most valuable but underutilized assets.

She noted their impact across healthcare, ICT, education, business, and the creative sector, adding that IOM, through an EU-supported migration programme, is working with NiDCOM to improve coordination, policy review, and diaspora data systems.

A representative of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ron Hendrix, also described the Nigerian diaspora as an important bridge connecting the country to global opportunities through skills transfer, investment, and international representation.

National Assembly and Stakeholders Push for Broader Protection

The Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs reaffirmed its support for stronger diaspora engagement, describing Nigerians abroad as a major national asset.

The committee also raised concerns about the welfare and protection of Nigerians in countries such as South Africa, calling for increased attention to their safety and rights.

Similarly, the House Committee on Diaspora said migration must be strategically managed for national growth, noting that remittances from Nigerians abroad now exceed foreign direct investment.

Broader Policy Inclusion and State Participation

Catherine Imaji Udida of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons called for more inclusive policies that reflect the realities of all Nigerians abroad, including those in temporary or irregular migration situations.

She also stressed the need for regular stakeholder engagement to improve coordination.

State diaspora officials, civil society organisations, and non-governmental groups also participated, sharing ideas and updates aimed at strengthening implementation of Nigeria’s diaspora policy and maximising the contributions of citizens abroad.