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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria and Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) are in talks for a mutually beneficial partnership and collaboration with regards to migration management between the two countries.
The Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Jamie Christoff emphasised on the need for partnership during a visit to NiDCOM Chairman/CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa in Abuja, according to a statement issued by Gabriel Odu, of the Commission’s
Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit.
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,” he said.
Christoff added that there is need for the two countries to synergize and close the gap in expectations of Nigerians especially those going with the best intentions to showcase the best of the country.
“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 explained.
He added that, together with his team, they are ready to support the commission with opportunities, time and expertise to achieve a better managed migration.
Dabiri-Erewa, while receiving the delegation, expressed her appreciation for the visit and the offer of partnerships revealing some 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 narrated.
Dabiri-Erewa reiterated that there are lots of opportunities both countries can leverage adding that the Commission, with the support of a 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.
She 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.
