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Tag: NiDCOM

  • NiDCOM facilitates return of actress Jumoke George’s daughter from Mali

    NiDCOM facilitates return of actress Jumoke George’s daughter from Mali

    Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has announced the return of Adeola, daughter of actress Jumoke George from Mali.

    Adeola, whose whereabouts has been unknown to the family for over four years, was later found in Mali where she is said to be doing menial jobs.

    The mother lamented her disappearance during an interview on the Talk to B show hosted by actress Abiola Bayo. 

    She stated that Adeola had been living with her grandmother in Ibadan and was last seen after informing the family she was travelling to Lagos.

    The host reached out to the Federal Government through (NIDCOM whose Chairperson immediately got in touch with the Ag Nigerian High Commissioner, Amb Ugo Chime, for her return home. 

    NIDCOM Chairman/CEO, Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa, was at hand in Lagos office of the Commission where the very excited Adeola, thanked the commission and Abiola Bayo, who highlighted her mother’s ordeal on her programme “ Talk with B” as well as Actor Niyi Johnson who was also in attendance.

    Dabiri-Erewa welcomed Adeola and hoped that others would learn from how she was deceived into a job that never was.

    Read Also: NiDCOM boss hails election of four Nigerians in UK 

    She warned others to resist any temptation of any supposed job offers in Libya, Mali as it’s all journey to slavery.

    Adeola said she was promised, through someone close , to get employed in a pharmacy only to be told she had been sold to a “ madam” on arrival, a move she vehemently resisted.

    Adeola said she did not get in touch with her family out of shame of unfulfilled dreams and expressed happiness to be back.

  • NiDCOM boss hails election of four Nigerians in UK 

    NiDCOM boss hails election of four Nigerians in UK 

    Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has congratulated four UK-based politicians of Nigerian descent on their recent electoral victories.

    The newly elected Nigeria-British politicians are Dr. Adekunle Osibogun, Princess Opeyemi Bright, Cllr. Jason Utitofon Jackson, and Cllr. Sunny Lambe.

    In a statement issued by Gabriel Odu of the Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, Dabiri-Erewa praised Cllrs. Bright and Jackson for making history, with Bright becoming the youngest Mayor of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, and Jackson emerging as the first Black Mayor of Islington.

    Read Also: NIDCOM receives 13 trafficking victims rescued from Ghana, Mali

    She also congratulated Cllr. Sunny Lambe on his elevation from Councillor to Mayor of Southwark, and commended Dr. Osibogun on his re-election to both the Buckinghamshire Council and Buckingham Town Council.

    Describing their achievements as record-breaking milestones, Dabiri-Erewa highlighted their dedication, resilience, and pursuit of excellence. 

    She urged them to remain steadfast in their duties and prayed for divine guidance and strength as they serve in their new roles.

  • NIDCOM receives 13 trafficking victims rescued from Ghana, Mali

    NIDCOM receives 13 trafficking victims rescued from Ghana, Mali

    Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), has received 13 Nigerians, including 12 young women and a five-year-old boy, who were rescued from trafficking in Ghana and Mali.

    The victims were welcomed at the NIDCOM Liaison Office in Lagos, according to a statement signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director of Media, Publicity, and Protocol at the Commission.

    The 12 women rescued from Ghana are between the ages of 16 and 30, while the two individuals brought back from Mali are aged 27 and 35. The only child in the group, a five-year-old boy, was also among those rescued from Mali.

    A breakdown of the victims by state of origin shows that four are from Cross River, four from Benue, and one each from Imo and Oyo States. The two rescued from Mali are from Adamawa State.

    Speaking on behalf of Dabiri-Erewa, the Head of the Lagos Liaison Office, Mr. Dipo Odebowale, said the girls recounted being deceived with promises of jobs in Ghana but were instead forced into prostitution. A similar story was shared by those rescued from Mali.

    Read Also: NiDCOM celebrates Lord Mayor Katung’s induction into Nigerian women’s hall of fame

    The commission reiterated its commitment to working with relevant authorities to support the victims’ rehabilitation and to continue efforts in the fight against human trafficking.

    “The victims also narrated how they were sexually abused, physically assaulted, and emotionally traumatised by their traffickers, both in Ghana and Mali.

    “Dabiri-Erewa assured the girls that NIDCOM would continue to give the logistics and ensure that they are reunited with their families, and also work with their respective state Governors to rehabilitate the girls.

    “She also called for the crackdown on the human traffickers and agents through naming and shaming them after necessary prosecution to curtail modern-day slavery.

    “The girls were later taken to NAPTIP by NIDCOM for necessary profiling and documentation.”

  • NiDCOM celebrates Lord Mayor Katung’s induction into Nigerian women’s hall of fame

    NiDCOM celebrates Lord Mayor Katung’s induction into Nigerian women’s hall of fame

    The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has described the induction of the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Abigail Marshall Katung, into the Maryam Babangida Nigerian Women’s Hall of Fame as a historic and proud moment for the Nigerian diaspora community.

    In a statement signed by Gabriel Odu of NiDCOM’s Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, Dabiri-Erewa praised the milestone, calling it a reaffirmation of NiDCOM’s belief in the power and global influence of Nigerians living abroad.

    “Abigail Marshall Katung embodies the excellence, resilience, and leadership that we celebrate at NiDCOM,” she said. “Her achievement as the first African-born Lord Mayor of Leeds is truly inspiring and deserving of this national recognition.”

    The NiDCOM boss noted that the induction not only honours Katung’s personal success but also highlights the strength and contributions of Nigerian women in the diaspora who are making significant global impacts while maintaining strong ties to their roots.

    She reiterated NiDCOM’s commitment to recognising Nigerians across the world who excel in their fields and remain dedicated to the growth and development of Nigeria.

    Read Also: We’re investor-friendly, NIDCOM chief assures Diaspora

    “This honour is a reminder that home never forgets,” she added. “We hope it inspires more Nigerians in the diaspora to stay connected, return, and invest in building the Nigeria we all envision.”

    In her response, Abigail Marshall Katung expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition, describing it as “a deeply humbling honour that connects me back to my roots in the most meaningful way.”

    She commended NiDCOM and the Centre for Women Development for spotlighting Nigerian women in the diaspora who are leading transformative change globally, and pledged her continued commitment to strengthening ties between Nigeria and its diaspora, especially through empowering women and youth in leadership.

    The Aisha Babangida Nigerian Women’s Hall of Fame, located at the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development in Abuja, celebrates exceptional Nigerian women at home and abroad who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, service, and impact.

  • We’re investor-friendly, NIDCOM chief assures Diaspora

    We’re investor-friendly, NIDCOM chief assures Diaspora

    The Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has assured Nigerians living abroad that the country is open to foreign investors.

    Dabiri-Erewa, according to a statement on Sunday, stressed that the government has created an environment that is friendly to investors.

    She was quoted to have spoken while reacting to the protest and petition of a group called “The Foreign Investors Network (FIN) by its President Ifeoma Nkengwu, as well as its Country Representative, Rev. Emmanuel Olorunmagba, who  both claimed that the environment in Nigeria was not enabling enough for intending  investors.

    The duo cited the issue of Winhomes Global Services Limited, who claimed to have invested over $250 million in real estate in Okun Ajah, Lagos and had it demolished by the Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi.

    Read Also: No new revelation by FBI on Tinubu, says Presidency

    Thje NiDCOM Chair said: “We acknowledge their reach out to NIDCOM, months after the whole issue had become a sensational media affair. We had begun an investigation into the matter and had some officials visit the site.

    “However, unfortunately we discovered that the matter is currently in court and we can only wait for the court ruling.”

    The NIDCOM boss stressed that Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS) remains a veritable channel for Diasporas wishing to invest and the Federal Ministry of Industries, Trade and Investment will soon announce some initiatives in partnership with the Commission.

    She also assured them that as their embassy in Nigeria, they should always contact NiDCOM to assist in areas they may wish to navigate and clarify.

    Dabiri-Erewa commended Nigerians living abroad for improved remittances and investments recorded under the. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.

    She said policies and programmes that will continue to encourage them will be sustained as they remain a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy and cannot be ignored.

  • VeryDarkman urged to be fair with Abike-Dabiri as NiDCOM boss recognized for major efforts against human trafficking

    VeryDarkman urged to be fair with Abike-Dabiri as NiDCOM boss recognized for major efforts against human trafficking

    Following recent allegations of negligence in handling human trafficking cases, particularly from controversial social media activist VeryDarkMan, the Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has received support from anti-human trafficking advocate and Cameroon-based publisher Ismaila Adegbola.

    Adegbola, who leads the group Advocates Against Human Trafficking & Child Exploitation, urged critics—especially VeryDarkMan—to be fair in their assessment of Dabiri-Erewa’s efforts.

    He highlighted her consistent commitment to addressing human trafficking and protecting Nigerians abroad, noting that her track record speaks for itself.

    The controversy began when VeryDarkMan issued a one-week ultimatum to Dabiri-Erewa, demanding urgent action to rescue children allegedly trafficked to the Ivory Coast.

    In response, Dabiri-Erewa dismissed the accusations as “misinformed and ignorant,” defending NIDCOM’s role and stating that such complex issues require coordination with multiple agencies.

    The exchange has sparked a heated debate online, with Nigerians divided over where the responsibility lies for ensuring the safety and repatriation of citizens stranded overseas.

    Adegbola emphasised that while it is important to hold public officials accountable, it is equally vital to recognize those who have consistently shown dedication to tackling human trafficking and protecting the rights of Nigerians in the diaspora.

    He said, “Let’s focus on solutions, not blame; it is the responsibility of everybody to come out in unity in the fight against human trafficking,” said Adegbola.

    “It is truly disheartening to witness the recent confrontation between social media activist Verydarkman and Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), especially on an issue as sensitive and heartbreaking as human and child trafficking in Côte d’Ivoire.”

    Read Also: Mercy Chinwo: VeryDarkMan reacts to arrest warrant, alleges conspiracy

    “Last year, I embarked on an investigative mission to Côte d’Ivoire to document the harsh realities faced by many of our children and young girls trapped in modern slavery. What I encountered was devastating, and I believe this issue demands more than outrage — it requires strategic action, unity, and compassion.

    “While Verydarkman may be passionate about justice, I must strongly caution against the tone and words used towards Hon. Abike Dabiri. From my experience, she has shown consistent concern for the welfare of Nigerians abroad. I vividly remember her swift and emotional response when I notified her office about the crisis in Côte d’Ivoire. She was deeply saddened and encouraged me to engage NAPTIP for further intervention. Though my repeated visits to NAPTIP were fruitless — a matter that must be addressed within that agency — it would be unfair to place the blame solely on her.

    “I must also commend the Nigerian community and the Nigerian embassy in Côte d’Ivoire for their resilience and efforts so far in tackling this issue. They have shown leadership, compassion, and commitment in the face of a difficult situation.

    “Let us remember: this is not a fight for one person or agency alone. This is our collective responsibility. It is time to channel our energies into meaningful partnerships. We must raise awareness, empower vulnerable communities, and demand reform at all institutional levels.”

  • NiDCOM boss applauds Cardoso on launch of non-resident Nigerian accounts

    NiDCOM boss applauds Cardoso on launch of non-resident Nigerian accounts

    Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has described as strategic the introduction of the Non-Resident Nigerian Ordinary Account (NRNOA) and the Non-Resident Nigerian Investment Account (NRNIA) by the Central Bank of Nigeria. 

    Dabiri-Erewa explained that the initiative will enhance diaspora engagement and bolster Nigeria’s economic growth. 

    The initiative was recently introduced by Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). 

    In a statement issued by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the Commission’s Head, Media, Public Relations and Protocols, the move is a strategic initiative to enhance diaspora engagement and bolster Nigeria’s economic growth.

    “Dabiri-Erewa emphasised the pivotal role of diaspora remittances, noting its status as the highest source of foreign exchange to Nigeria, which surpasses oil revenues.

    “She further highlighted the importance of strategic engagement with the diaspora community, stating, “Nigerians, home and abroad, must join hands to develop Nigeria, as no foreigner will do this for us. 

    Read Also: NIDCOM rejects proposal to tax December returnees

    “The NiDCOM Boss urged Nigerians in the diaspora to leverage these new financial packages.

    “She also commended the CBN’s proactive approach in strengthening ties with the diaspora, citing recent engagements towards optimising remittances and boosting the country’s finances.

    “The Chairman, NiDCOM, expressed optimism that the launch of the NRNOA and NRNIA would help increase economic contributions from Nigerians worldwide.”

  • NIDCOM rejects proposal to tax December returnees

    NIDCOM rejects proposal to tax December returnees

    The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has dismissed a proposal to impose a $500 tax on Nigerians returning home during the festive “Detty December” period, warning that it would discourage Diasporans from visiting and investing in the country.

    The proposal, made by Chief Dokun Olumofin in a formal letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, suggested taxing Nigerians and tourists returning home between November and January.

    In a statement signed by the Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols Unit, Mr. Abdur-Rahman Balogun, NIDCOM described the suggestion as ill-advised, exploitative, and counterproductive. 

    Balogun stated that such a move would dissuade Nigerians abroad from reconnecting with their homeland, emphasizing that it is “all shades of No.”

    “Such advice will no doubt mitigate efforts of the Diaspora Commission in encouraging the Diasporans to visit  home, invite others and invest.

    “Besides, the remittances of the diaspora in 2024 alone was the highest so far into the economy; they have been investing massively in various sectors of the economy.

    “The said N54 billion that Lagos hotels alone raked in December 2024, according to a report by an advisory firm MO Africa Company Limited, is domiciled in the Nigerian  economy, so why tax Nigerians coming to their country for various  reasons and promoting their country positively?

    “Such advice is also seen by NIDCOM as some sinister move to damage the image and revenue streams of the government just as its enforcement will equally pave the way for corruption.

    “For now, the Commission believes that the   government does not need to issue direct tax as it is already raking in money through channels of indirect taxes on all visitors through entertainment and other sundry services.

    “The role of government in providing critical infrastructure , such as security , and ease of transportation , as seen under the Renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should rather be encouraged and sustained ,while the diaspora organically continues to return home and contribute to the nation’s growth and development.

    Read Also: NiDCOM at 5: Transforming diaspora engagement

    “NIDCOM reiterates that the government should continue to provide an enabling environment for all , which encourages the diaspora to come back home for holidays and  invest more in the country.

    “NIDCOM also commends the Lagos state government for providing a world class environment for Diasporans and tourists in general , projecting that the numbers will continue to grow, while encouraging all states to do same and the country be prepared for more positive implosions in the country’s tourism and entertainment landscape 

    “It is pathetic  to note that while the world is lowering barriers to get more inflows and tourists  into their country and economy, Chief Olumofin  is suggesting increasing costs and raising barriers for Nigeria,” the statement partly reads. 

  • NiDCOM at 5: Transforming diaspora engagement

    NiDCOM at 5: Transforming diaspora engagement

    • By Juliannah Vincent-Yakubu

    Sir: As the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) celebrates its fifth anniversary, it has cemented its position as a transformative force in bridging Nigeria and its global diaspora. Established to harness the expertise, resources, and networks of millions of Nigerians abroad, NiDCOM has redefined diaspora engagement, driving unity, fostering investment, and promoting national development.

    Through flagship initiatives such as the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS), the commission has attracted millions of dollars in investments from the diaspora. Beyond the over $90 billion in remittances sent by the diaspora in the last five years, NiDCOM has provided a structured framework for Nigerians in the diaspora to invest in the country through the annual NDIS, in partnership with private sector-led Nigerian diaspora summit initiative ( NDSI).

    The institutionalisation of the National Diaspora Policy 2021 has also fostered tangible growth in agriculture, technology, and healthcare amongst others. The Diaspora Data Mapping and the creation of the +600 Compendium of Diaspora Champions further underscore its commitment to excellence. NiDCOM’s unwavering dedication to the welfare of Nigerians abroad is evident in its swift interventions during crises.

    From rescuing trafficked migrants in Ghana to evacuations from Libya, Sudan, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, Bosnia Herzegovina, and South Africa, amongst others, the commission has showcased a strategic and compassionate approach.

    Over the last five years, NiDCOM has received and resolved more than 1,000 petitions, addressing the concerns of Nigerians abroad. The commission has also played a pivotal role in celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural and academic heritage. Initiatives like the African Diaspora Research Centre of Excellence at the University of Ibadan and the Home Strings Programme, which connects second and third-generation diaspora Nigerians, demonstrate NiDCOM’s forward-thinking approach to sustaining relationships with Nigerians abroad.

    Read Also: CBN suspends export proceeds repatriation extensions

    It is no surprise that over nine countries have visited Nigeria to understudy NiDCOM. These are Egypt, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Namibia, Ghana, South Korea, Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), Zimbabwe and Zambia.

    Through its National Diaspora Day celebrations and National Diaspora Merit Awards, NiDCOM has provided platforms to honour the achievements of Nigerians abroad, fostering national pride.

    Its Diaspora Weekly TV programmes, Quarterly Lecture Series, and collaborations with MDAs, missions and consulates abroad, embassies, international partners, and private organisations have broadened its impact, making diaspora engagement more dynamic and inclusive.

    As NiDCOM continues its journey of excellence, the future holds boundless possibilities.

    The commission stands as a testament to what can be achieved through innovation, determination, and a deep commitment to connecting Nigerians, no matter where they are in the world.

     While there is undoubtedly more work to be done, here is a toast to the solid foundation laid by NiDCOM Chairman/CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa over the last five years, taking the issue of diaspora from obscurity to prominence.

     •Juliannah Vincent-Yakubu,

    erinjuliannah@gmail.com

  • NiDCOM handles over 1,000 petitions in five years

    NiDCOM handles over 1,000 petitions in five years

    Since its establishment five years ago, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has processed over 1,000 petitions, addressing issues ranging from emergencies and consular challenges to trafficking and deportation.

    As the commission marked its fifth anniversary, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NiDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, disclosed this. She also highlighted the agency’s strides in fostering increased diaspora investments in Nigeria.

    Reflecting on the commission’s journey since its inception in May 2019, Dabiri-Erewa expressed gratitude for its achievements while acknowledging the challenges faced.

    In a statement issued by Gabriel Odu of NiDCOM’s Media, Public Relations and Protocol Unit, Dabiri-Erewa praised the dedication of her team. “We have made significant contributions toward Nigeria’s development, thanks to the unwavering commitment and sacrifices of the NiDCOM team, past and present.”

    Read Also: Senate committee commends Tinubu’s policy direction, backs actions to hold contractors accountable

    While celebrating the milestone, Dabiri-Erewa reiterated her hope for a brighter future for the commission and its staff.

    Dr. Sule Yakubu Bassi, Secretary to the Commission, emphasised the pivotal role of NiDCOM’s staff in engaging the diaspora, attracting investments, safeguarding Nigerians abroad, and promoting a positive image of Nigeria globally. Despite the hurdles encountered, Bassi expressed confidence in NiDCOM’s ability to deliver on its mandate.

    Former staff member, Habibat Pat-Eluameh, lauded the agency’s growth and expressed optimism about its future. Similarly, Halima Ajagbe, Head of Administration, commended Dabiri-Erewa’s leadership and reaffirmed the staff’s commitment to adding value to the commission’s work.