Abuja, April 28, 2026 — The Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER) and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) have commenced a high-level validation process for a landmark diaspora study aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s policy framework to better harness the over $20 billion annual contributions of Nigerians abroad.
The study, titled “A Six-Continent Survey of Nigerian Professionals in Diaspora: Policy Measures for Harnessing Contributions to National Development,” is being reviewed at a multi-stakeholder workshop in Abuja, bringing together policymakers, lawmakers, development partners, and diaspora experts.
Director-General of NISER, Antonia Taiye Simbine, described the exercise as a critical step toward evidence-based policymaking, noting that Nigeria’s diaspora remains one of the country’s most strategic assets.
She highlighted that beyond remittances—estimated at over $20 billion annually—diaspora Nigerians contribute through skills transfer, innovation, mentorship, and global networks that enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness.
However, Simbine identified key challenges limiting optimal engagement, including policy inconsistencies, weak institutional coordination, regulatory bottlenecks, and trust deficits.
“The study is designed to provide empirical insights and actionable policy recommendations that will strengthen diaspora integration into national development planning,” she said.
Also speaking, NiDCOM Chairman/CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, emphasised the need to shift focus from consumption-driven remittances to investment-led contributions that support sustainable development and wealth creation.
She described Nigerians in the diaspora as a globally competitive and resourceful population contributing across sectors such as healthcare, technology, entrepreneurship, and public service.
Dabiri-Erewa noted that the validation workshop offers an opportunity to refine policy recommendations and develop a practical roadmap for structured diaspora engagement.
“We must move from brain drain to brain gain and ultimately to brain circulation, where skills, expertise, and investments flow seamlessly between Nigeria and its diaspora,” she said.
Stakeholders at the event stressed the importance of creating investment-friendly policies, strengthening data systems, and improving coordination among government institutions to maximize diaspora contributions.
Representative of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Adamu Yusuf, described the initiative as a significant step toward unlocking the full potential of diaspora expertise for national development.
Similarly, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) underscored the role of diaspora professionals in strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system through knowledge exchange and investment.
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A representative of the NMA President, Prof. Bala Mohammed Audu, noted that Nigerian medical professionals abroad have already contributed to advancements such as the establishment of specialized healthcare services, including in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), across the country.
Participants at the workshop are expected to refine the study’s findings, build consensus on key policy directions, and develop actionable strategies to enhance diaspora engagement as a driver of national development.
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