Botswana Looks to Nigeria’s Diaspora Engagement Strategy for Inspiration
- May 21
- 2 min read
The government of Botswana has identified Nigeria’s diaspora engagement framework as a strong example for African nations seeking to strengthen relationships with citizens living abroad and harness their contributions for national growth.
This was disclosed during a study visit by a Botswana delegation to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission in Abuja, where discussions focused on strategies for mobilising diaspora communities for investment, development, and international partnerships.
Chairperson of the commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, represented by the agency’s Secretary, Dr. Sule Yakubu Bassi, said effective diaspora engagement requires deliberate planning, consistent communication, strategic policies, and trust-building between governments and citizens abroad.
According to her, many African countries are increasingly recognising the role diaspora communities can play in boosting economic development, investment opportunities, and skills transfer across the continent.
She highlighted several initiatives introduced by the commission to strengthen ties with Nigerians overseas, including diaspora investment programmes, housing initiatives, engagement forums, and partnerships with professional groups abroad.
The commission also encouraged Botswana to participate in the upcoming Global Nigeria Investment Summit expected to hold in Canada later this year.
Dabiri-Erewa further noted that many Nigerians living overseas remain willing to contribute to the country’s development through investments, knowledge sharing, and entrepreneurship. She added that diaspora communities can also help improve Nigeria’s global image through positive representation.
Speaking for the Botswana delegation, Mr. Dikgang Phillip Makgalemele of the Institute for Development Practitioners said Botswana hopes to adapt aspects of Nigeria’s diaspora engagement model as it works toward building stronger connections with its citizens abroad.
He revealed that Botswana plans to organise its first Trade and Investment Forum next year to encourage diaspora participation in national development and investment discussions.
The visit adds to the growing number of international delegations that have visited the Nigerian commission to understudy its diaspora engagement framework.
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