IOM, NiDCOM Strengthen Ties to Promote Safe Migration and Diaspora Engagement.

By Caroline Ameh

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) are set to enhance collaboration aimed at promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration, as well as strengthening diaspora engagement strategies.

This development came during a courtesy visit by Dimanche Sharon, the newly appointed Chief of Mission for IOM Nigeria, to the Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.

During the meeting, Sharon commended NiDCOM’s efforts in managing migration and engaging with the Nigerian diaspora, describing Nigeria’s approach as a model for other African countries. She highlighted the importance of well-managed migration, calling it “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 stated.

She reaffirmed IOM’s commitment to working more strategically with NiDCOM, particularly in supporting government initiatives that ensure safe migration. Sharon noted that in 2022 alone, Nigeria received $20.1 billion in diaspora remittances—representing 38 percent of the total for sub-Saharan Africa—demonstrating the critical role the diaspora plays in national development.

The two organisations have previously collaborated on the safe return and reintegration of Nigerians stranded abroad, especially during humanitarian emergencies.

In her response, Hon. Dabiri-Erewa welcomed the IOM delegation and pledged NiDCOM’s continued commitment to deepening the partnership. She identified several areas for immediate and future collaboration, including:

The review and implementation of Nigeria’s Diaspora Policy, Capacity development and training opportunities for NiDCOM staff, Study tours to promote institutional learning and exchange, Joint awareness campaigns on the dangers of irregular migration and Continued engagement through the Standing Committee on Diaspora Matters.

Dabiri-Erewa also stressed the importance of viewing migration through the lens of development and expressed confidence that the renewed partnership with IOM would produce tangible benefits for Nigerians both at home and abroad.