Strengthening Diaspora Ties And Learning From Existent Institutions: Dr. Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor Visits Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM

As part of efforts to deepen strategic collaboration for the benefit of Edo State indigenes abroad and to learn how to navigate challenges as well as implement what works, the Director General of the Edo State Diaspora Agency, Dr. Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor, paid a visit to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) headquarters in Abuja yesterday the 4th of June 2025.

During the visit, she commended the visionary leadership of the Chairman Honourable Abike Dabiri and the entire NiDCOM team for the incredible work they are doing to connect and support Nigerians in the diaspora. From policy direction to strategic diaspora engagement, NIDCOM has continued to lead the charge in harnessing the talents, skills, and resources of Nigerians abroad for national development.

A key highlight of the visit was a comprehensive debrief session conducted by the Commission’s Secretary, Engr. Dr. Sule Yakubu Bassi, who walked Dr. Ogboro-Okor through the core responsibilities of State Diaspora Focal Point Officers. Dr. Bassi and other core NiDCOM staff present, including Ms. Olufunke Oloye, Cordinator of the State Diaspora Focal Point Officers, presented a vast resource of knowledge, highlighted what is required and proffered solutions on how to navigate potential challenges that could arise in the dispensation of her duties. 

These include:

▪️Maintaining a robust diaspora database, 

▪️Enabling diaspora participation in state development, 

▪️Facilitating investments, and encouraging engagement through cultural and economic events such as the National Diaspora Day and the Door of Return Festival.

Dr. Ogboro-Okor, ever the willing lifelong learner and her team emphasized the invaluable knowledge and inspiration from the day as well as the alignment between NiDCOM’s national vision and the bold mission of Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State, to empower Edo State citizens globally through the Edo State Diaspora Agency. This visit marks a significant step towards a stronger federal-state partnership that will amplify the voice, value, and visibility of the Edo State diaspora community worldwide.