Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has praised Nigerian leaders and community representatives in Canada for creating a comprehensive database system.
Dabiri-Erewa made the remarks during the launch of the Nigerian Association Database in Ottawa, Canada. She emphasized the critical role of data in empowering the Nigerian Diaspora and noted that this initiative marks a significant step towards integrating Nigerians into Canada’s political, economic, and social spheres.
The NiDCOM Chairman commended the Nigerian community in Canada for setting a strong example and urged other Diaspora communities around the world to follow suit.
In his address, Amb. Obioma Nzewuji, Chargé d’Affaires of the Nigerian High Commission in Ottawa, highlighted the database’s potential to enhance engagement between the Nigerian community, the High Commission, and local authorities. He called for greater cooperation among Nigerian organizations in Canada.
Echoing this sentiment, Ako Ufodike, Deputy Minister of Multiculturalism and Immigration in Alberta, acknowledged the value of the database in helping connect new Nigerian arrivals with established community resources, especially with the growing Nigerian population in Alberta.
The database includes contact information for over 85 Nigerian-led community and student associations, spanning professional, cultural, religious, business, and student groups. Its goal is to consolidate Nigerian organizations across Canada, providing easier access for Nigerians—especially students and newcomers—who seek to connect.
A coordinated meeting of all registered associations is planned for the coming year.
