RismadarVoice Reporters, May 5, 2026
Key stakeholders in migration and diaspora affairs have renewed calls for deeper collaboration and more coordinated policy frameworks to maximise the contributions of Nigerians living abroad.
The call was made at a high-level meeting of the Standing Committee on Diaspora Matters held in Abuja, where government officials, development partners and state representatives convened to review existing strategies and chart a more cohesive path forward.
Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, emphasised the importance of sustained partnerships and inclusive policy design in unlocking the full potential of the diaspora community. She noted that Nigerians abroad remain a critical asset to national development, contributing significantly through remittances, investments, skills transfer and global networks.
Participants at the meeting assessed ongoing diaspora engagement initiatives, identifying gaps in coordination and implementation that have limited impact over time. Discussions also focused on innovative approaches to encourage more structured participation of diaspora communities in key sectors of the economy.
With growing recognition of the economic and social influence of Nigerians overseas, stakeholders stressed the need for harmonised policies that cut across federal and state levels, while also aligning with international best practices.
The Standing Committee on Diaspora Matters is expected to intensify efforts toward policy alignment and the development of more impactful, results-driven programmes aimed at strengthening diaspora engagement nationwide.
