NASS Tasks NiDCOM on Building Database of Nigerians Abroad
The National Assembly (NASS) has urged the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) to prioritize the development of a comprehensive database of Nigerians living abroad.
This directive was made during the 2024 Budget Performance Review and the presentation of NiDCOM’s 2025 Budget proposal in Abuja, led by Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM.
The NASS emphasized the importance of diaspora data mapping as a tool to better understand the needs and contributions of Nigerians abroad. The lawmakers believe such data will enable the commission to develop policies and programs that enhance engagement and foster national development.
In addition to urging NiDCOM to produce a diaspora database, NASS also called for the diversification of the commission’s funding sources. It encouraged partnerships with international organizations, donor agencies, and private entities to reduce NiDCOM’s reliance on government allocations.
A statement by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols, detailed the session’s highlights. Senator Victor Umeh, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora Affairs and NGOs, presided over the meeting and noted the significant disparity between NiDCOM’s 2024 budget and its proposed 2025 allocation.
Sen. Umeh lauded Hon. Dabiri-Erewa’s leadership despite limited resources. He praised her efforts in increasing diaspora remittances and investments in Nigeria, emphasizing NiDCOM’s pivotal role in the country’s development.
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The lawmakers collectively acknowledged that the commission is underfunded and resolved to advocate for an upward revision of its budget.
Presenting NiDCOM’s 2024 budget performance, Dabiri-Erewa disclosed that the commission managed a total budget of ₦263 million with a 99% execution rate. However, no capital budget releases were made from the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation. For 2025, she revealed a proposed allocation of ₦1.28 billion, covering salaries, overhead, and personnel costs.
Dabiri-Erewa also outlined NiDCOM’s strategic plans for 2025, which include enhancing diaspora engagement, improving personnel capacity, and establishing infrastructure to support welfare and investment programs. She reiterated the need for a dedicated Diaspora Plaza to serve as both an operational base and a hub for visiting Nigerians abroad.
Responding to inquiries about external funding, Dabiri-Erewa stated that NiDCOM relies on sponsorships and partnerships for its major events due to the absence of grants or external funding. She expressed optimism about the establishment of a physical structure to facilitate real-time diaspora data collection.
The issue of infighting among various chapters of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) was also discussed. The NiDCOM Chairman called for interventions from the NASS committees on diaspora, stressing that such conflicts hinder positive development.
Dabiri-Erewa expressed gratitude to the lawmakers for their unwavering support and reassured them of NiDCOM’s commitment to achieving its mandate. She emphasized that with increased funding and collaboration, the commission could significantly enhance its impact on national development.
By PRNigeria
