The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to enhancing collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) on migration and diaspora-related issues.
Dabiri provided this assurance at a strategic meeting with the Acting Chief of Mission, IOM, Ms. Paola Pace, at NiDCOM’s headquarters in Abuja.
The NIDCOM boss expressed gratitude to IOM for its ongoing support, particularly in developing and implementing the National Diaspora Policy.
Dabiri-Erewa then emphasised the significance of the policy in effectively engaging the Nigerians in diaspora in national development and mentioned plans for its review to ensure it remains relevant and impactful.
furthermore, she advocated for the resumption of the ‘short-term return programme,’ which over time has encouraged knowledge exchange between Nigerian professionals at home and those in the diaspora, thereby fostering “brain circulation” rather than brain drain.
In her remarks, Ms. Pace commended the Commission for its proactive engagement with the Nigerian diaspora, noting their remarkable contributions across various fields.
Pace then underscored the importance of continued collaboration in addressing the challenges of irregular migration among Nigerian youths.
Additionally, the IOM chief raised the necessity for joint efforts to tackle challenges faced by migrants and the Nigerian diaspora, particularly in providing mental health rehabilitation and support services.
