Nigeria and Türkiye Sign Historic MoU to Strengthen Diaspora Collaboration

Nigeria and Türkiye have formalized a landmark partnership aimed at boosting engagement with their respective diaspora communities. The agreement, signed during President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Türkiye, creates a framework for cooperation in areas including citizen welfare, educational and cultural exchanges, investment promotion, and science and technology collaboration.

Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), described the MoU as “a historic milestone” for the commission, noting that it represents the first bilateral agreement of its kind since NiDCOM’s establishment. Speaking in Ankara at Türkiye’s Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB), she emphasized that the initiative would deepen institutional ties and provide avenues for diaspora participation in Nigeria’s development.

Abdulhadi Turus, head of YTB, welcomed the collaboration, highlighting the long-standing educational links between the two nations, including Türkiye’s scholarship programme that has supported hundreds of Nigerian students since 1992. He expressed confidence that the MoU would foster stronger networks among Nigerian and Turkish communities globally.

During her visit, Dabiri-Erewa engaged with Nigerian residents in Ankara to discuss passport renewals, post-study visas, and business opportunities abroad. Community members were encouraged to act as ambassadors for Nigeria and leverage their skills to contribute to national growth. The agreement signals a new chapter in Nigeria–Türkiye relations, leveraging diaspora potential for mutual economic, cultural, and educational advancement.