The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) have entered into a strategic partnership to tap into the skills and expertise of Nigerians abroad for national development.
During a meeting at NiDCOM headquarters in Abuja, NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, and NiDCOM’s Chairman/CEO, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the collaboration as a timely intervention that would connect local innovators with scientists, engineers, technologists, and entrepreneurs in the diaspora.
Halilu highlighted some of NASENI’s ongoing projects, including Revolut, a low-cost, real-time payment platform already serving thousands of Nigerians; the Innovation Hub and Incubation Programme, which supports scientists and innovators at home and abroad; and Delta-2, a joint initiative with the Czech Republic that enters its third phase in September.
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He explained that his visit to NiDCOM was to present two priority projects: a government-backed, multi-currency payment platform designed to ensure affordable, seamless real-time transactions, and a diaspora-driven innovation programme aimed at developing practical projects that can boost Nigeria’s economy.
Commending NiDCOM’s professional database, Halilu said it would be crucial in identifying experts for collaboration.
Dabiri-Erewa, in her response, praised NASENI’s initiatives and assured the Commission’s support.
She noted that the partnership would provide opportunities for Nigerians at home and abroad to share ideas, skills, and experiences that align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. She also invited NASENI to participate in the 8th Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit, scheduled for November 11–13, 2025, in Abuja.
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Both agencies agreed to set up a joint working committee to streamline areas of collaboration, with particular focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and broader diaspora engagement.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
