IOM, NiDCOM deepen frameworks for safer migration, diaspora engagement

By DailyTimesNGR

8 May 2025

News

By Ukpono Ukpong

In a significant move to strengthen Nigeria’s migration and diaspora management, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) have reaffirmed their partnership to deepen frameworks that promote safe, orderly, and regular migration, while boosting diaspora engagement.

Dimanche Sharon, the newly appointed Chief of Mission of IOM in Nigeria, made this commitment during a familiarisation visit to the Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, at the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja.

Sharon underscored IOM’s readiness to collaborate more strategically with NiDCOM in advancing migration governance and maximizing the developmental impact of the Nigerian diaspora.

Commending NiDCOM’s leadership in diaspora engagement and migration management, Sharon described Nigeria’s efforts as exemplary in Africa, noting that stronger collaboration would enhance ongoing initiatives aimed at safe migration and effective diaspora participation in national development.

According to her, “Migration, when well-managed, is a powerful catalyst for sustainable development. We recognise the value of the Nigerian diaspora and their outstanding contributions, particularly through remittances which are the highest in sub-Saharan Africa.”

Sharon also emphasised IOM’s readiness to collaborate more strategically with NiDCOM in areas that will add value to the efforts of the Government and deliver on the shared promise of safe migration.

She added that in 2022, Nigeria received $20.1 billion in diaspora remittances, accounting for 38 per cent of Sub-Saharan Africa’s total, underscoring the diaspora’s vital role in national development.

IOM and NiDCOM have been engaged in the safe return and reintegration of Nigerians stranded abroad, especially during humanitarian crises.

Responding, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa appreciated the visit and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to working with IOM to deepen existing relationships.

The NiDCOM Boss highlighted key areas of interest that require urgent attention and collaboration, including:

The review and implementation of Nigeria’s Diaspora Policy, capacity development and training opportunities for NiDCOM staff, study tours to enhance institutional learning and exchange, Joint awareness campaigns on the risks and dangers of irregular migration and keep up with the standing Committee on Diaspora Matters.

Dabiri-Erewa emphasised that migration must be approached as a developmental issue and expressed optimism that the partnership with IOM would continue to yield impactful results for Nigerians at home and abroad.