Sharon Dimanche, Chief of Mission, International Organisation for Migration (IOM), has commended Nigeria for advancing diaspora engagement.

Ms Dimanche gave the commendation in her remarks at the opening ceremony of the two-day National Diaspora Day celebrations and merit awards 2025 tagged: “HYBRID” on Friday in Abuja.

The event with the theme: “Optimising Formidable Diaspora Potential for National Development and Growth”, which commenced on Friday is expected to end on Saturday.

She noted that the celebration was a call to action to truly optimise diaspora potential, adding that inclusivity, coherence and long-term commitment must be ensured.

“This means expanding political participation, including voting rights, recognising geostationary rights, establishing credible platforms and meaningful platforms, for dialogue and for creation.

“Let me take this opportunity to appreciate the government in Nigeria, for its growing commitment to diaspora engagement and the strong collaboration we have enjoyed with various ministries, departments and agencies.

“As IOM, I reaffirm our commitment to supporting Nigeria in translating diaspora potential into concrete development outcomes. Let us all work together to ensure that no talent is left behind,” she said.

Ms Dimanche added that the organisation’s vision focused on promoting skills, mobility and knowledge exchange through structured programmes that matched diaspora expertise with local government needs.

According to her, it also facilitates diaspora-leading investments through advisory services and partnership with public and private actors.

“We also focus on improving remittance infrastructure, to reduce transfer costs and maximise development impacts, as well as investing in youth initiatives that promote innovation, leadership and prosperity entrepreneurship.”

The IOM chief of mission referenced the World Bank’s 2024 report, which says the global official remittances amounted to 905 billion dollars, adding that the Sub-Saharan Africans received 58 billion dollars, while Nigeria recorded significant inflow of 20.9 billion dollars.

This, according to her, marked 8.9 per cent increase from the previous year.

“Remittances have vital economic buffer, supporting households, education, healthcare, and livelihoods across the country,” she said.

The event attracted crème d’la crème, across various works of life. Crème de la crème is a French phrase that means “cream of the cream.”

(NAN)