Abuja, Feb. 19, 2025 – Ambassador Garba A. Lawal, President of the Association of Foreign Relations Professionals of Nigeria, has commended the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) for its invaluable contributions to Nigeria’s foreign policy. He described NIDCOM as a key partner and strategic force in advancing the nation’s global interests.
The commendation was made in a statement signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, following a courtesy visit by the Association’s delegation to Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM, in Abuja.
Ambassador Lawal urged NIDCOM to actively participate in the Association’s upcoming Annual Conference, which will serve as a platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and forging meaningful partnerships to strengthen diaspora engagement and contribute to national development.
“We must explore deeper collaborations to further Nigeria’s foreign policy, especially in areas that impact our people abroad,” Lawal said.
He also encouraged NIDCOM to ensure that its staff partakes in the Association’s training programs to enhance their skills in effective diaspora engagement.
In response, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa welcomed the partnership, highlighting the need for valuable input from the Association as NIDCOM prepares to review its National Diaspora Policy.
“We highly value the expertise that the Association of Foreign Relations Professionals brings,” Dabiri-Erewa said. “We look forward to working closely with you to explore opportunities for mutual growth and collaboration.”
As part of the ongoing partnership, NIDCOM will participate in the Association’s mentorship and training initiatives to enhance the capacity of its staff in engaging with the diaspora, ultimately advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy goals.
The Association’s Annual Conference is scheduled for February 21, 2025, with Amb. Yusuf M. Tuggar, Hon. Minister of Foreign Affairs, as the host.
