Abuja, Aug. 15, 2024 -The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has appealed to state governors to empower and support their state Diaspora Focal Point Officers (SDFPOs) in the discharge of their duties.
Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman of NiDCOM, gave the advice during a meeting with the SDPFOs in Abuja.
She said the country had a critical role to play in leveraging the potential and resources of Nigerians living abroad for the country’s growth.
NiDCOM boss also advised the SDPFOs to actively participate and integrate into the Commission’s initiatives designed to foster national development.
She stressed the importance of mobilisation for more diaspora investments, facilitating skills transfer, and spearheading community development projects.
“I call upon you to key into NiDCOM’s initiatives, facilitate seamless engagement, and ensure that the benefits of our collective efforts reach every state,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
Reflecting on the success of the recent National Diaspora Day, Dabiri-Erewa urged SDFPOs to encourage their citizens abroad to register on the NiDCOM website for effective data mapping and engagement.
The NIDCOM boss informed them of the allocation of land to build Diaspora Smart Cities in various states by the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) under the leadership of the Managing Director/CEO, Hon Oyetunde Ojo.
She commended them for their participation and contribution to the successful hosting of National at Diaspora Day.
Dabiri-Erewa reminded them of the upcoming activities of NiDCOM such as the Badagry Door of Return Festival, in October, Diaspora Investment summit in Canada and Ireland in October, and the Nigerian Diaspora Investment Summit in November in Abuja.
She also advised the officers to share innovative ideas and feedback with NiDCOM to further enhance collective initiatives for deepening diaspora engagements
The meeting featured success stories from various states, showcasing the significant socio-economic impacts of collaborative efforts with the diaspora.
These success stories underscored the transformative power of a united and proactive approach in engaging the Nigerian diaspora.
The State SDPFOs from Ekiti, Akwa Ibom, Ondo, Kogi, Plateau as well as that of the Federal Capital Territory, expressed their readiness to amplify their engagement efforts and collaborate closely with NiDCOM to achieve the Commission’s goals.
Mrs Linda Umoh, the Akwa Ibom State Diaspora Focal Point Officer, informed of the upcoming Akwa Ibom Day in the US in August, to which the Chairman/CEO, promised NiDCOM’s presence and participation. (GBN)
