Diaspora Policy Shake-Up: FG Begins Nationwide Stakeholder Review

The engagement brought together members of the Standing Committee on Diaspora Matters alongside key stakeholders to assess progress so far, identify gaps, and develop clearer strategies for engaging Nigerians living abroad more effectively.

NiDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, stressed the need to move beyond discussions to practical outcomes. She described Nigerians in the diaspora as key partners in national development, contributing not only through remittances but also through investments, skills transfer, and global influence.

She acknowledged funding constraints but assured that NiDCOM remains committed to coordinating diaspora affairs nationwide. Dabiri-Erewa also called for stronger legal and institutional frameworks, including diaspora voting rights, the establishment of a Diaspora Investment Trust Fund, and improved funding mechanisms. She commended states such as Lagos, Abia, and Cross River for already setting up diaspora-focused structures and encouraged others to do the same.

She highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the Diaspora Data Portal, the annual National Diaspora Day on July 25, and plans for a Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference in Canada, noting that these efforts are aimed at deepening engagement with Nigerians abroad.

The Chief of Mission of IOM Nigeria, Sharon Dimanche—represented by Ukamaka Anyanechi—described the Nigerian diaspora as a major but underutilised national asset. She noted their contributions across sectors including healthcare, ICT, education, business, and the creative industry. She added that through an EU-supported migration programme, IOM is working with NiDCOM to improve coordination, enhance data systems, and support diaspora mapping.

Representing the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ron Hendrix said the diaspora serves as a vital bridge between Nigeria and the global community, contributing through skills transfer, investment, and international image-building beyond remittances.

From the National Assembly, the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs reaffirmed its support for diaspora engagement, describing Nigerians abroad as a strategic national resource. The committee also raised concerns about the welfare and safety of Nigerians in countries such as South Africa, calling for stronger protection mechanisms.

The House Committee on Diaspora emphasized the need for structured migration management to drive development, noting that diaspora remittances currently surpass foreign direct investment but stressing the need to better harness knowledge and global networks.

Other stakeholders, including the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, urged inclusive policies that reflect the realities of all Nigerians abroad, including those in irregular or transitional situations. They also called for regular stakeholder engagement to improve coordination.

State diaspora representatives and civil society organisations also participated in the discussions, sharing updates and recommendations aimed at strengthening diaspora engagement and improving policy implementation nationwide.