Ondo State Launches Diaspora Focal Desks In All 18 Local Government

The Ondo State Government has introduced Diaspora Focal Desks across all 18 Local Government Areas, a move designed to push diaspora engagement closer to grassroots communities and broaden access to global opportunities.

The initiative decentralises coordination by ensuring that each LGA has a dedicated structure to interface directly with Ondo indigenes abroad. These desks are expected to strengthen data collection, streamline communication, and improve mobilisation for diaspora-supported projects.

According to the Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, the new system aligns with the state’s broader vision of building stronger global linkages that translate into local development impact. He emphasised that Ondo State intends to make diaspora services more accessible, responsive and community-focused.

Akinlosotu made this known during a stakeholders’ meeting in Akure, which included the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, and all 18 Local Government Chairmen. The meeting formally endorsed the operational structure for the rollout.

He noted that the model will help unlock economic and social benefits embedded in the activities of Ondo indigenes worldwide. With clear liaison points now in place, diaspora communities will have a more organised channel to collaborate on investment, humanitarian support, cultural promotion and knowledge transfer.

Government officials described the move as a major milestone in the state’s evolving diaspora framework, adding that Ondo State continues to refine systems that position it as a leading subnational actor in diaspora engagement.

The state also joins a growing list of subnational governments, including Enugu, Kano, Cross River, Edo and the Federal Capital Territory, that have extended diaspora structures to the local government level to deepen participation.

The state also joins a growing list of subnational governments, including Enugu, Kano, Cross River, Edo and the Federal Capital Territory, that have extended diaspora structures to the local government level to deepen participation.