In the heart of Abuja, a handshake between two diplomats marked the beginning of a promising partnership. Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, met with Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), to discuss collaboration between their respective diaspora communities. This meeting is more than just a diplomatic gesture; it's a recognition of the shared experiences and potential of their global citizens.
Ambassador Poroy highlighted Turkey's diaspora, numbering approximately 7.5 million, with a significant presence in Europe and the United States. He noted the active participation of the Turkish diaspora in local politics and their influence in various sectors. This mirrors the impact of the Nigerian diaspora, with an estimated 17 million Nigerians abroad contributing to the economies and societies of their host countries
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Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the importance of the newly launched NiDCOM Diaspora Registration Portal, which aims to register Nigerians abroad to improve communication, support, and policy planning. She also spoke about NiDCOM’s flagship programs, including the Diaspora Investment Summit and the National Diaspora Day and Diaspora Merit Awards, which showcase success stories and encourage Nigerians abroad to contribute to national development. The discussions between Poroy and Dabiri-Erewa centered on sharing best practices and learning from each other's diaspora policies. Both parties expressed a strong desire to strengthen bilateral ties through diaspora engagement and policy exchange. Ambassador Poroy reaffirmed Turkey’s readiness to host a Nigerian delegation for further dialogue and collaboration.
This partnership is timely, as both nations recognize the untapped potential of their diaspora communities. By fostering closer ties, Nigeria and Turkey aim to leverage their global citizens' expertise, resources, and networks to address challenges and seize opportunities in both countries. The collaboration between Nigeria and Turkey serves as a model for other nations seeking to harness the power of their diaspora communities. It underscores the importance of recognizing and nurturing the contributions of citizens abroad, not just as remittance senders but as active participants in national development. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the role of diaspora communities in shaping the future of their home countries cannot be overstated. The Nigeria-Turkey partnership is a testament to the value of international cooperation and the shared aspirations of people across borders.
