Nigerian Diaspora House Committee On Diaspora Affairs Engagement
Joint Committee of the Nigerian Diaspora and House of Representative Committee on Diaspora Affairs Formed to Address Nigerian Diaspora Concerns
In a recent virtual conference titled “Exploring Collaboration Opportunities between the Nigerian Diaspora and the Legislature for Better Diaspora Experience,” significant strides were made towards addressing the concerns of Nigerians living abroad. The conference, facilitated by the House of Representatives Committee on Diaspora Affairs, saw active participation from both Nigerian diaspora representatives and legislative leaders.
Chairman of the House Committee, Honorable Tochukwu Okere, emphasized the pivotal role of Nigerians in the diaspora in driving economic growth and development back home. He acknowledged the challenges faced by this demographic in their host countries and pledged the government's commitment to prioritizing their welfare. Honorable Okere underscored the importance of proactive legislative measures to address these challenges, citing the Speaker's endorsement of the committee's efforts.
During the conference, Chairman of the Nigerian American Coalition for Justice and Democracy (NACJD), Professor Eddie Oparaoji, outlined the myriad challenges encountered by Nigerians abroad. Foremost among these challenges is the lack of adequate representation and support from Nigeria, which fosters a sense of disconnection and resentment among the diaspora community. Bureaucratic obstacles hinder their engagement with governmental agencies and participation in national development initiatives, exacerbating feelings of neglect and marginalization.
Moreover, discrimination, xenophobia, and limited access to essential services in their host countries compound the difficulties faced by Nigerians in the diaspora. Despite their significant contributions to their adopted nations, they continue to confront barriers to integration and acceptance, impeding their ability to fully contribute to Nigeria's development.
In response to these pressing concerns, a joint committee comprising representatives from the Nigerian diaspora and the legislature has been set in motion. This committee aims to implement measures to enhance consular presence and services, improve governance structures representation, provide legal protections, offer investment incentives, facilitate enhanced remittances, and promote diaspora engagement programs.
The formation of this joint committee marks a significant step towards fostering closer collaboration between the Nigerian diaspora and governmental institutions. By addressing the challenges faced by Nigerians abroad and leveraging their potential for national development, Nigeria aims to harness the talents and resources of its diaspora community for the collective benefit of the nation.
Contact:
Email: [email protected]
Address: NACJD, 4315 50TH Street NW, Ste 100, Washington, DC. 20016