The Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Jamie Christoff, has stressed the need to partner with Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, (NiDCOM) for mutually beneficial partnership and collaboration on migration management between the two countries.
Speaking during his visit to NiDCOM Chairman/CEO, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa in Abuja, the Canadian envoy said: “I understand the impact of large diaspora groups and their contributions in Canada. Nigeria diaspora is among our top 5 migrant groups and also a central pillar in Nigeria’s economy. It is important for us to help these Nigerians migrate regularly.”
Christoff added that there is a need for the two to synergize and breach the gap in expectations of Nigerians, especially those going with the best intentions so as 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,” Christoff said.
According to the High Commissioner, together with his team, they are ready to support the commission with opportunities, time and expertise to achieve a better managed migration.
The statement by NIDCOM said that Dabiri-Erewa, while receiving the delegation, expressed her appreciation for the visit and the offer of partnerships and revealed some of the on-going projects of the Commission with the Nigerian Diasporas in Canada.
She recalled her experience in Canada when she met with the Nigerian groups and many positive developments that emerged from the engagements.
“This year, we will be hosting the Nigeria-Canadian Business Summit in
Canada and also a Nigeria Day to bring together this large diaspora group to navigate ways to make impact, both in the host country and back home,” she said.
She reiterated that there are lots of opportunities both countries can leverage, adding that the Commission, with the support of the Councillor in Canada, is working on a Canada Pull Factor as a pilot project to harmonize the data of Nigerians in Canada in line with the Diaspora Data Mapping Portal.
The NIDCOM boss also highlighted other strategies put in place by the Commission to engage with Nigerians in Diaspora such as the National Diaspora Policy, the National Diaspora Day Celebration/the National Diaspora Merit Award, the Diaspora Investment Trust Fund, the Diaspora Door of Return Festival, and Diaspora Medical Missions among others.
GIK/APA
Canada, Nigeria to partner in managing migration
