Concerned about the meagre budgetary allocation to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Senator Victor Umeh, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora Affairs and Non-Governmental Organizations, has assured the Commission of the Senate’s support in achieving its objectives.
In a statement signed by Abdur Rahman Balogun, Head of Media and Public Relations at NIDCOM, Senator Umeh provided this assurance during a committee meeting with Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM, and the senior management team during their inaugural interactive session on the Commission’s activities.
The Senate Committee expressed surprise at the limited budgetary allocation to NIDCOM, considering its visible activities and interventions in diaspora affairs. The committee’s invitation to the Chairman/CEO aimed to obtain more information about the Commission, its challenges, prospects, and areas where it might require assistance, particularly during the appropriation period.
Senator Umeh commended Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa for her dynamism and prudent management in transforming the Commission and enhancing Nigeria’s positive image despite financial constraints.
During the meeting, Dabiri-Erewa outlined some of the Commission’s significant programs and achievements in the four years since its inception, along with the challenges it faces. These accomplishments include obtaining approval for the Diaspora Policy from the Federal Executive Council, creating the Diaspora Data Mapping Portal, hosting the annual Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit, celebrating National Diaspora Day, launching the Badagry Door of Return, establishing the Nigerian Diaspora Investment Trust Fund, appointing Diaspora Focal Point Officers, organizing Diaspora Presidential Town Hall Meetings, and hosting the National Diaspora Merit Awards, among others.
Dabiri-Erewa also pointed out that low budgetary allocations, inadequate office accommodations, and limited funds are hindering the Commission’s optimal performance.
Regarding the issue of Nigerians detained in Ethiopian prisons, she explained that previous efforts were made to reduce congestion in these prisons through a Memorandum of Understanding between Nigeria and Ethiopia. However, these efforts were not concluded before the last administration ended. She noted that many Nigerians in these prisons were incarcerated for drug-related offences and fraudulent activities.
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