The Journalists International Forum for Migration (JIFORM),a well-known group concerned with migration concerns, has called on President Bola Tinubu to establish a dedicated ministry for Diaspora and Migration Engagements.
JIFORM’s appeal comes as a response to the increasing importance of diaspora communities and the need for comprehensive policies and initiatives to address their concerns and contributions. In a statement released yesterday, JIFORM highlighted the significant role played by Nigerian diaspora communities around the world. The organization emphasized the need for a dedicated ministry to engage with these communities, harness their potential, and foster mutually beneficial relationships.
President JIFORM, Mr. Ajibola Abayomi, stressed that a dedicated ministry would ensure effective coordination and implementation of programs that cater to the needs and aspirations of Nigerians living abroad. He noted that such a ministry would not only address migration-related issues but also focus on leveraging the skills, expertise, and resources of the Nigerian diaspora for the country’s development.
JIFORM cited examples of other nations that have successfully established ministries or departments for diaspora affairs, highlighting the positive impact of these institutions in facilitating diaspora engagement, investment, and knowledge transfer. The organization believes that Nigeria can benefit immensely from a similar approach.
The proposed ministry, according to JIFORM, would work towards enhancing the welfare and protection of Nigerian migrants abroad, improving remittance flows, promoting diaspora investments, facilitating diaspora participation in national development projects, and providing support for diaspora-led initiatives.
President Tinubu’s administration has been urged to consider the establishment of this ministry as part of its commitment to inclusive governance and leveraging the potential of Nigerians in the diaspora. The move would also align with the global trend of recognizing the importance of diaspora communities and engaging them as valuable stakeholders in national development efforts.
As Nigeria continues to witness significant emigration and remittance flows, the establishment of a ministry for Diaspora and Migration Engagements could serve as a strategic step towards leveraging the skills, resources, and networks of Nigerians abroad for the country’s growth and development.
JIFORM’s call to President Tinubu underscores the importance of acknowledging and actively engaging with the Nigerian diaspora. Establishing a dedicated ministry for this purpose would signify a proactive approach towards harnessing the potential of the diaspora, strengthening the bonds between Nigerians at home and abroad, and maximizing the benefits of migration for national progress.
