Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) have agreed to work together in a new move aimed at boosting innovation and technology in Nigeria, with a focus on linking the skills of Nigerians in the diaspora with those at home.
This partnership was discussed during a meeting between Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the NiDCOM, and Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the NASENI.
Dabiri-Erewa described the collaboration as a “timely intervention,” stressing that it would connect local innovators with scientists, engineers, technologists, and entrepreneurs abroad. She explained that the plan supports the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by creating a platform for Nigerians everywhere to share ideas and experiences for national progress.
She praised the work NASENI has been doing and assured them of NiDCOM’s support. She also recommended that the NASENI team take part in the 8th Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS), which will take place from November 11 to 13, 2025, in Abuja.
In his remarks, Halilu highlighted several of NASENI’s key projects. He mentioned Revolut, a payment platform that is already serving thousands of Nigerians with low-cost, real-time transfers. He also spoke about the Innovation Hub and Incubation Programme, which funds Nigerian scientists and innovators both in the country and abroad.
Another key project, Delta-2, is a partnership with the Czech Republic that will enter its third phase in September, bringing advanced technology and international collaboration to Nigeria.
Halilu explained that his visit to NiDCOM was to present two projects. The first is a government-backed payment platform designed to be seamless, flexible, multi-currency, and capable of real-time monitoring at affordable rates.
The second focuses on engaging Nigerians in the diaspora in science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship to develop practical projects that can drive economic growth. He emphasized that NiDCOM’s database of professionals would play a critical role in making these projects successful.
Both NiDCOM and NASENI agreed to set up a joint working committee. The committee will focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) while also creating broader diaspora engagement strategies to support Nigeria’s development.