The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has announced two major initiatives aimed at harnessing the skills and expertise of Nigerians living abroad to drive national development.
The programmes are designed to position diaspora talents as key contributors to economic growth, innovation, and nation-building, in line with Nigeria’s efforts to engage its citizens beyond its borders.
With the unveiling of the Connected Diaspora x DOWA Start Up Challenge and the Connected Diaspora Flagship Event 2025, the Commission is signalling a renewed drive toward innovation, investment and cross-border collaboration.
Speaking at a Press briefing in Lagos, Southwest Nigeria, Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa disclosed that the initiatives form part of NiDCOM’s broader strategy to energise Nigerian professionals abroad and channel their expertise into the country’s growing economic sectors.
Mrs Dabiri-Erewa stated that “the programmes are transformative and strategically positioned to tap into the creativity and entrepreneurial strength of Nigerians worldwide.”
According to her, at the heart of this push is the Connected Diaspora x DOWA Start Up Challenge, themed: “Building, Breaking and Believing in Nigeria.” The challenge offers cash prizes of up to ₦1 million for exceptional business ideas developed by Nigerians in the diaspora.
She said; “Beyond financial support, the initiative aims to spotlight high-impact concepts and promote knowledge transfer, enterprise development and strategic investment tools, NiDCOM believes are vital for accelerating Nigeria’s economic momentum. By positioning diaspora innovators as key partners in progress, the Federal Government hopes to deepen engagement with one of the nation’s most influential communities.
The momentum continues on December 19, 2025, when NiDCOM will host the Connected Diaspora Flagship Event in Lagos as the gathering is expected to bring together an impressive mix of entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, tech executives and thought leaders”.
NIDCOM head said the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, will serve as Special Guest of Honour and is expected to highlight the role of government diaspora collaboration in shaping Nigeria’s future.
She further stated that, “Tech pioneer and Zinox Group Chairman, Mr. Leonard Stanley Ekeh, will deliver the keynote address, drawing from decades of experience that have inspired countless young innovators across the continent.
“The event will also serve as a platform for deeper conversations around innovation, investment and talent mobilisation. A special Diaspora Talent Career and Internship Fair another key feature of the programme will connect returning diaspora professionals with internship pathways provided by DOWA partner organisations, creating opportunities for talent exchange and national capacity building.” Dabiri-Erewa averred.
NiDCOM Chairman expressed profound appreciation to its partners, describing their support as a crucial pillar in amplifying the potential of Nigerians abroad.
While urging more stakeholders across government and the private sector to join the movement, she emphasising that the opportunities for collaboration and nation building are both vast and urgent.
As the countdown to the December 7 deadline for submissions begins, NiDCOM is encouraging young Nigerians and diaspora innovators to seize the moment. With new platforms emerging for ideas, creativity and collaboration, the Commission believes the future of Nigeria is being shaped not just at home but across the world.
Olusola Akintonde