In an event organized in Abuja on Sunday by the Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Amb. Zubairu Dada, the Minister for State for Foreign Affairs, stated that the Federal Government was willing to create an enabling environment that would encourage direct investment by the diaspora.
Dada added that Nigerians in the Diaspora had continuously shown great dedication, with their time, skills, talents, resources and global exposure, to the development of the country.
“The theme of this year’s event encapsulates the intention of Nigeria in high engagement with her diaspora, especially in these times when we badly need peace, if any development is ever to take place.
“This celebration is also a networking event intended to showcase the achievements of Nigerians in the Diaspora, particularly our internationally acknowledged surgeons, educationists, world class athletes, engineers, lawyers and scientists, among others.
“Men and women who have distinguished themselves in their chosen careers for their huge contribution to the peace and progress of their host countries and humanity in general.
“I wish to assure you that the federal government of Nigeria will provide an enabling environment, through policies and programmes tailored to support you and your wellbeing, and in turn encourage you to give back for the upliftment of your country,” he said.
He added that the government had taken a further step by approving and adopting the National Diaspora Policy 2021 and its Action Plan, for a more holistic approach to the nation’s engagement with the diaspora.
Also in attendance at the event was The Director-General (DG) of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Nigeria’s Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. In her remarks, she commended the Nigerians in the diaspora for their huge contributions to the nation’s economy.
The DG made particular reference to how remittances from Nigerians abroad have helped bring about developments in the rural areas and the sustenance of the Nigerian economy in general.
Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM, noted that development could only thrive in a peaceful environment, hence the need for maximum cooperation to collaborate.
She urged the diaspora to collaborate with Nigeria, their country of origin, in sharing ideas , technology and others skills, that would promote her development.
The theme of the event was “Diaspora Integration for National Peace and Development”. According to the organisers, the event was also anchored on the pedals of peace that would help quicken the engagement Nigerians in the diaspora for national growth and development.
