The promotion of diaspora ties for national building, according to stakeholders in Diaspora matters, depends on strengthened networking and cooperation among all.
This was one of the highlights of the fourth summit of the State Diaspora Focal Point Officers (SDFPOs) and the Standing Committee on Diaspora Matters, which was held in Abuja and was organized by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
Mr. Victor Lutenco, a representative of the Chief of Mission for the IOM, emphasized the necessity for a strong development between Nigeria and the Nigerians in the Diaspora in his opening remarks.
Lutenco continued by saying that the government should offer sufficient welfare for the Diasporas and ensure their involvement in the election process. He also said that platforms or procedures should be made accessible for Nigerians living abroad to contribute in the country’s economy.
He praised the Nigerian government for developing a plan and organizational framework to turn the brain-drain situation inside out into brain-gain and brain circulation for societal advancement.
Hon. (Dr.) Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, stated via Zoom from Seoul, South Korea that the Commission needs to be reinforced in terms of functionality and independence in order to provide more services geared toward reviving the bond between Nigeria and its Diaspora.
Dabiri-Erewa took advantage of the occasion to emphasize the importance of continuing to support diaspora voting, as other African nations are quickly incorporating it into their own political systems.
From the grassroots level at various state levels to the federal level in Nigeria, the NiDCOM Boss stated that the Diasporas must collaborate in order to strengthen and expand the country.
She expressed gratitude to the IOM for continuing to support Nigeria’s diaspora and migration issues.
State Diaspora Focal Point Officers and other stakeholders provided updates and participated in discussions during the meeting.