The National Population Commission (NPC) and the Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) have pledged to strengthen collaboration in recognising and integrating Nigerians in the diaspora who seek to reconnect with their homeland.
In a significant meeting, the NPC Chairman, Hon Nasir Isa Kwarra, received a delegation led by NIDCOM chairman/CEO Hon Dr Abike Dabiri-Erewa at the NPC headquarters in Abuja.
The delegation also included representatives from Africa Ancestry and The Daily Times.
Dr Dabiri-Erewa highlighted that members of Africa Ancestry had traced their lineage to Nigeria through DNA testing and were eager to return and contribute to the country’s development.
She emphasised the need for the NPC to facilitate the issuance of birth certificates to these returning Nigerians and include them in the upcoming Population and Housing Census.
“The National Population Commission plays a crucial role in recognising our diaspora,” she said, urging the commission to count the returnees officially.
Dr. Gina Paige, president and co-founder of Africa Ancestry, stressed the historical exclusion of black Americans from population statistics until 1870.
She appealed for birth certificates and Nigerian passports for the returnees, describing the move as a step toward formal reintegration.
“We seek your assistance to come home officially. We want to pave the way for other Nigerians to return,” Dr Paige said, underscoring their readiness to contribute expertise and resources to Nigeria’s development.
Hon. Kwarra assured the delegation that the NPC would collaborate with NIDCOM to expedite the issuance of birth notification certificates, enabling the returnees to obtain Nigerian passports.
“Your story resonates deeply, reflecting the lingering effects of the slave trade. We invite you to help shape Nigeria’s future as you have contributed to the development of other nations,” Kwarra stated.
The Daily Times publisher, Fidelis Anosike, emphasised his organisation’s commitment to reshaping Nigeria’s narrative through a project set to launch on May 29, 2025.
He expressed optimism about achieving reliable data on Nigeria’s population domestically and abroad through collaboration with NIDCOM and NPC.
They both maintained that the homecoming initiative marks a significant step toward recognising the contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora and fostering a renewed sense of belonging and community.
