Experts have emphasized the critical role Nigerians in the diaspora can play in driving the nation’s economic growth and development.
They made this assertion at the 2025 International Conference organized by the Centre for Excellence in Migration and Global Studies (CEMGS) at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in Abuja.
The conference, themed “Immigration and Sustainable Development: Problems and Prospects,” gathered specialists to examine the intricate relationship between migration and sustainable progress.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, stressed the need for Nigeria to harness the advantages of migration while minimizing its negative effects.
He highlighted key benefits such as increased remittances, knowledge transfer, and cultural exchange while also noting challenges like brain drain, exploitation, and pressure on public services.
“There are challenges that must be addressed. Migration can be a source of cultural shocks, employment opportunities, and economic rewards. Our goal should be to maximize these benefits while minimizing risks,” Sununu said.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting migrants and internally displaced persons, ensuring they receive adequate attention and resources.
Balancing Migration’s Benefits and Challenges
NOUN’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, underscored the dual impact of migration, describing it as both a driver of progress and a source of challenges.
According to him, tackling migration issues requires a strategic, people-focused approach that safeguards migrants’ rights, provides legal migration pathways, and addresses the root causes of forced migration.
“The problems associated with migration are complex, but the prospects are equally promising. Migration should not be viewed as a threat but as an opportunity for growth, innovation, and national development,” Peters stated.
He further called for strengthened partnerships between governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector to ensure migration is managed effectively.
Diaspora’s Contribution to National Growth
The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, emphasized the significant contributions of Nigerians abroad, particularly in healthcare, investment, and national development.
“We are pushing diaspora-related issues to the forefront. Nigerian doctors in the diaspora are opening hospitals back home, and people are traveling to Nigeria for medical treatment,” she noted.
Dabiri-Erewa also highlighted key diaspora-driven initiatives such as the Diaspora Day celebration, Diaspora Investment Summit, and Diaspora Data Mapping, aimed at tracking and maximizing the contributions of Nigerians abroad.
“We are mapping diaspora data because data is crucial. Knowing where our diaspora community is and what they contribute is essential for effective engagement,” she added.
Expanding Migration Studies
Prof. Gloria Anetor, Director of CEMGS, revealed that the center was initially established through a grant from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and has been growing steadily.
She emphasized the need for postgraduate programs in migration and global studies, calling for additional financial support to expand the center’s mandate.
“Our vision is to bridge humanity with the future, providing sustainable research in migration and global studies,” she stated.
She also announced a new partnership with the Munich Forum Dialogue (MFD) and the University of Krems, Austria, aimed at training professionals on Circular and Return Migration.
Call for Policy Reforms
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Emeka Obiezu, speaking on “Unlocking the Migration-Development Nexus: A Holistic Approach to Policy and Practice,” stressed the need for policies that promote legal and structured migration.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Sonny Echono, his predecessor, Prof. Suleiman Bogoro, National Librarian, Prof. Chinwe Anunobi, and the Chief of Mission to Nigeria for the International Organization of Migration (IOM), Paola Pace.
The discussions reinforced the need for Nigeria to strategically engage its diaspora community as a valuable asset in national development while implementing policies that make migration a force for positive change.
