By Ebi Kesiena
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has announced plans to unveil a dedicated Diaspora Home and Abroad Platform aimed at providing safe and accessible housing solutions for Nigerians living overseas.
This was contained in a statement signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, NiDCOM, ahead of the 6th National Diaspora Day scheduled for July 25 and 26 at the State House Conference Centre, Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, said the housing platform is one of several initiatives designed to deepen meaningful engagement with Nigerians abroad, especially those looking to invest in real estate back home. “In 2024 alone, Nigerians in the diaspora sent home over $20 billion, more than the country’s total foreign direct investment,” she noted. “But beyond the figures lies an untapped wealth of skills, knowledge, and global experience we must now harness.”
This year’s event, themed “Optimising Formidable Diaspora Potentials for National Development and Growth,” will focus on practical solutions for engaging the diaspora as co-drivers of national transformation. Over 1,200 participants are expected to attend in person, with thousands joining virtually from across the world.
As a sign of growing global interest, a delegation of 25 African American visitors will participate in this year’s activities, reinforcing bonds between Nigeria and the wider African diaspora. Dabiri-Erewa emphasised that NiDCOM’s efforts, including the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS), Diaspora Data Mapping, and the establishment of Diaspora Focal Point Officers in the states, are all part of a long-term strategy to institutionalise diaspora engagement.
A major feature of this year’s programme is a Youth Empowerment Summit on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), with participation from students in 14 schools across Abuja. Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Mr. Abiodun Akanbi, confirmed that over 500 young people will take part.
The two-day hybrid celebration will also include investment forums, strategic networking, and end with the prestigious National Diaspora Merit Awards, recognising Nigerians making significant contributions across the globe.
