Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) spoke about the indispensable role of the African Diaspora in propelling continental development during a recent visit from a Zimbabwean delegation led by High Commissioner Amb. Maxwell Ranga.
Dabiri-Erewa buttressed on the significance of African states recognizing the immense value their Diasporas hold, stressing that they serve as catalysts for progress and cannot be overlooked. She advocated for intentional collaboration between Africans at home and abroad to address socio-economic challenges and build a prosperous Africa.
The NIDCOM chairman commended Zimbabwe’s interest in engaging its Diaspora, highlighting NIDCOM’s efforts in empowering Nigerian Diaspora through various initiatives such as the Nigerian Diaspora Investment Summit, National Diaspora Day, and Diaspora Housing Scheme.
Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the importance of showcasing positive contributions of Nigerians in the Diaspora, countering negative stereotypes perpetuated by Western media. She urged for concerted efforts to spotlight the achievements and investments made by Diaspora communities.
Amb. Maxwell Ranga praised Nigeria’s strategic approach in engaging its Diaspora for nation-building and expressed Zimbabwe’s interest in emulating Nigeria’s model. He announced Zimbabwe’s inaugural Investment Forum and Homecoming event last year and extended an invitation to Dabiri-Erewa to speak at the upcoming edition in April.
Mrs. Sienzeni Mateta from Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed the government’s commitment to harnessing the resources offered by its Diaspora for national development.
NIDCOM study tour of Zimbabwe marks the eighth country to engage with NIDCOM, following Ethiopia, Egypt, Tanzania, Namibia, Ghana, South Korea, and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
