The Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Jamie Christoff, has emphasised the need to partner with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission for a mutually beneficial partnership and collaboration with regards to migration management between the two countries.
The Canadian Envoy stated this during a visit to the Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in Abuja.
Christoff said: “I understand the impact of large diaspora groups and their contributions in Canada.
“Nigeria diaspora is among our top five migrant groups and also a central pillar in Nigeria’s economy.
“It is important for us to help these Nigerians migrate regularly.”
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Christoff added that there is a need for the two to synergise and bridge the gap in the expectations of Nigerians, especially those going with the best intentions, so as to showcase the best of Nigeria.
He added: “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.”
According to the Ambassador, together with his team, they are ready to support the commission with opportunities, time and expertise to achieve a better managed migration.
Dabiri-Erewa expressed her appreciation for the visit and the offer of partnership, revealing some ongoing 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 harmonise 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/National Diaspora Merit Award, Diaspora Investment Trust Fund, Diaspora Door of Return Festival, and Diaspora Medical Missions.
