The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) is reinforcing its partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to combat irregular migration, revise Nigeria’s diaspora policy, and build institutional capacity.
This renewed commitment was made during a strategic meeting in Abuja between NIDCOM Chairman and CEO, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and IOM Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Ms. Sharon Dimanche.
Ms. Dimanche, who recently assumed her role in Nigeria following a previous posting in Kenya, praised the Nigerian diaspora’s significant contributions to both national and continental development, especially through remittances. She emphasized the importance of structured migration and expressed IOM’s ongoing support for Nigeria’s migration and development priorities.
“We value the progress NIDCOM has made under your leadership, particularly in creating state focal points on diaspora affairs,” Dimanche noted. “Migration is part of human history, but it must be managed responsibly and safely. We are proud to continue supporting Nigeria’s efforts in this area.”
Hon. Dabiri-Erewa expressed gratitude for IOM’s longstanding support, particularly in assisting the voluntary return of stranded Nigerians from various countries. She highlighted existing collaborations, including awareness campaigns aimed at discouraging irregular migration, and emphasized NIDCOM’s alignment with Nigeria’s broader foreign policy goals under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“We are proud of our milestones, including our flagship diaspora events. The recent adoption of the Nigerian First Policy by the Federal Executive Council further strengthens our call for Nigerians abroad to return, invest, and contribute meaningfully to national development,” she said.
The NIDCOM chair urged Nigerians in the diaspora to go beyond remittances by investing in key sectors and supporting human capital growth at home.
“This is the time to give back, to build, and to help transform Nigeria,” she said.