The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has announced plans to unveil the Diaspora Home and Abroad Platform during the sixth edition of 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, explained that the platform is designed to offer Nigerians abroad safe, reliable and accessible housing solutions. She said this year’s commemoration aims to foster tangible and practical engagement with the diaspora community.
“In 2024 alone, Nigerians in the diaspora sent home over 20 billion dollars, surpassing the country’s foreign direct investment,” Dabiri-Erewa said. “But beyond the figures lies a wealth of knowledge, skills and international exposure that must now be channelled into nation-building.”
She added that this year’s theme, “Optimising Formidable Diaspora Potentials for National Development and Growth,” underlines the need to translate the diaspora’s contributions into meaningful action.
The 2025 event is expected to welcome over 1,200 in-person participants and thousands of virtual attendees worldwide. Reflecting renewed connections between Nigeria and the historic African diaspora, a group of 25 African American visitors will also take part in the Abuja celebrations.
Dabiri-Erewa noted that NiDCOM has in recent years concentrated on deepening structured diaspora engagement through initiatives such as Diaspora Focal Point Officers in states, the National Diaspora Policy, the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS), and ongoing diaspora data mapping, supported by continuous outreach.
As part of the celebrations, a Youth Empowerment Summit focusing on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) will be held, with students from 14 Abuja schools taking part. Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Mr Abiodun Akanbi, confirmed that over 500 young people are expected at the summit, which forms an integral part of the programme.
Other key elements of the two-day hybrid event include plenary discussions, investment forums and strategic networking sessions. Proceedings will conclude with the National Diaspora Merit Awards, recognising outstanding Nigerians making a global impact.