From Our Correspondent
The Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Jamie Christoff has emphasised the need to partner with Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) for mutually beneficial collaboration on migration management between the two countries.
The Envoy made these remarks when he paid a courtesy visit to the Commission office on Wednesday in Abuja.
“I understand the impact of large diaspora groups and their contributions in Canada.
“Nigeria’s diaspora is among our top five migrant groups. The group is also a central pillar in Nigeria’s economy.
“It is important for us to help these Nigerians migrate regularly,” Christoff said.
He added there was a need for the two countries to synergize and breach the gap in expectations of Nigerians.
“This is so, especially for those going with the best intentions to showcase the best of Nigeria.
“This can be achieved through regular engagements with Nigerians, knowledge and information sharing on the right steps to regular migration and what to expect in Canada,” the envoy explained.
According to him, the embassy is ready to support the commission with opportunities, time and expertise to achieve a better-managed migration.
Responding, NIDCOM Chairman, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa thanked the envoy for the visit and the offer of partnerships.
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She highlighted some ongoing projects of the Commission with the Nigerian Diasporas in Canada.
The chairman recalled her experience in Canada when she met with the Nigerian groups.
According to her, many positive developments are emerging from the Canada engagements.
“This year, we will host the Nigeria-Canadian Business Summit and Nigeria Day in Canada.
“This will bring together this large diaspora group to navigate ways to make an impact, both in the host country and back home,” she said.
Dabiri-Erewa reiterated that both countries could leverage many opportunities.
The chairman added that NiDCOM, with the support of a Councillor in Canada, “is working on a Canada Pull Factor as a pilot project to harmonise the data of Nigerians in Canada. This is in line with the Diaspora Data Mapping Portal.
She also highlighted other strategies to engage with Nigerians in the Diaspora. These include the National Diaspora Policy, the National Diaspora Day Celebration/ the National Diaspora Merit Award and the Diaspora Investment Trust Fund.
Others are the Diaspora Door of Return Festival and Diaspora Medical Missions among others.
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