NiDCOM, IOM Move to Strengthen Implementation of Nigeria’s Diaspora Policy

Nigeria is taking steps to improve how it engages with its citizens abroad, as the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission partners with the International Organization for Migration to reassess the rollout of the country’s diaspora policy.

At a high-level session in Abuja, government officials, development partners, and civil society representatives gathered to evaluate the effectiveness of the National Diaspora Policy introduced in 2021. The meeting focused on identifying gaps in implementation and proposing practical measures to ensure more structured and impactful engagement with Nigerians living overseas.

Leading the discussions, Abike Dabiri-Erewa stressed that Nigerians abroad should be treated as strategic partners in national development. She noted that beyond remittances, the diaspora contributes significantly through investments, innovation, and global influence, urging stakeholders to adopt more deliberate and results-oriented approaches.

Despite progress, funding constraints remain a major concern. Dabiri-Erewa called for stronger institutional backing, including legislative support for diaspora voting, improved financing frameworks, and the establishment of mechanisms such as an investment trust fund tailored to diaspora contributions.

Representatives of international partners highlighted the need for better coordination and data-driven engagement. Officials speaking on behalf of the IOM noted that while Nigerians abroad contribute across sectors like healthcare, technology, and education, these efforts are often fragmented and underutilised due to weak institutional alignment.

Support from the European Union-backed migration governance programme is expected to help address these challenges by improving policy coordination, strengthening data systems, and promoting structured diaspora mapping initiatives.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWK97-j5WyM

Lawmakers also reaffirmed their commitment to diaspora affairs, emphasising the need to protect Nigerians overseas and enhance the country’s ability to tap into global talent networks. They pointed out that diaspora remittances already exceed foreign direct investment, but argued that Nigeria must go further by leveraging skills transfer and international connections.

Stakeholders from government agencies and state-level diaspora offices shared updates on ongoing initiatives, while civil society groups called for more inclusive policies that reflect the realities of Nigerians in different migration situations.

The outcome of the review is expected to shape a more coordinated and measurable framework for diaspora engagement, positioning Nigerians abroad as a central force in the country’s long-term economic and social development.