The House Committee on Diaspora Affairs, led by its Chairman, Hon. Tochukwu Chinedu Okere, has commended the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) for its exceptional achievements since its establishment five years ago.
Hon. Okere stated this during the oversight visit to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission in Abuja.
Hon. Okere noted the efforts of Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, describing them as pivotal in fostering Diaspora engagement. “The Commission has made impressive strides, and as we look toward 2025, the Committee is ready to support NiDCOM’s initiatives with active involvement,” Hon. Okere stated.
Hon. Okere further stated, “We aim to be fully involved in NiDCOM’s engagement efforts and are committed to securing a permanent office location for the Commission, which will enhance its operations and capacities.” He encouraged NiDCOM to continue “showcasing and celebrating the accomplishments of good Nigerians doing exceptional work globally.”
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa presented NiDCOM’s key initiatives, including the National Diaspora Policy, a roadmap for its engagement with the Diaspora. Other initiatives include the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS), a key platform for attracting Diaspora investment, and the Diaspora Data Mapping Portal, which helps to ascertain the estimated 20 million Nigerians in the Diaspora.
“The $90 billion remitted by the Diaspora over five years underscores the importance of engaging Nigerians abroad as partners in the country’s development,” she noted.
The Chairman reiterated NiDCOM’s commitment to transforming “brain drain” into “brain gain” and “brain circulation,” encouraging investments by Nigerians abroad in vital sectors such as agriculture, health, education, and technology for the continued advancement of the nation.
Other members of the House Committee on Diaspora Affairs affirmed their commitment through robust bills, laws, and policies that will elevate NiDCOM as a ranking agency in terms of funding.
By Stellamaries Amuwa, @The Authority
