Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ In a historic move to reconnect with descendants of the Historic African Diaspora (HAD), the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and the National Population Commission (NPC) have launched an unprecedented partnership aimed at documenting individuals with ancestral roots in Nigeria. This initiative marks a transformative step toward fostering stronger ties between Nigeria and its global diaspora, reinforcing the country’s commitment to celebrating shared heritage and creating new avenues for engagement.
At a strategic meeting in Abuja, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, underscored the significance of this initiative in advancing diaspora relations. She emphasized that the collaboration aligns seamlessly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes purposeful diaspora engagement as a catalyst for national development. Dabiri-Erewa asserts that the project is driven by a profound aspiration to track, record, and reunite individuals of African origin with their Nigerian roots, thereby creating avenues for mutual cultural and economic development.
The initiative will leverage advanced data mapping techniques to identify and analyze the growing number of African diaspora descendants seeking to reestablish their Nigerian roots. By employing cutting-edge technology, the program aims to provide a comprehensive record of individuals with Nigerian ancestry, facilitating their reintegration into the country’s social and economic fabric. Dabiri-Erewa further encouraged members of the African Ancestry Reunion delegation to see Nigeria not just as a distant homeland but as a place where they can live, invest, and actively contribute to its development.
Equally committed to the success of this initiative, Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, Chairman of NPC, announced plans to introduce new census modules specifically designed to document HAD descendants with Nigerian lineage. Recognizing the importance of legal recognition, Kwarra assured that the Commission would issue authentic certificates and establish a robust legal framework to legitimize their status as Nigerians. These measures are expected to provide diaspora returnees with formal identification, helping them navigate opportunities within Nigeria.
Dr. Gina Paige, co-founder and president of African Ancestry, expressed her passion for helping African descendants reconnect with their roots, a mission she has pursued for nearly 22 years. Leading a 15-member delegation of individuals with Fulani-Hausa ancestry in Nigeria, Paige appealed to the Population Commission and relevant government agencies to facilitate legal documentation such as birth certificates and Nigerian passports—for those seeking formal recognition. She emphasized that the initiative extends beyond tracing lineage; it represents a profound commitment to rebuilding ancestral connections, fostering cultural pride, and enabling descendants to fully embrace Nigeria as their home.
The partnership between NiDCOM and NPC has also garnered praise from prominent figures in media and business. Mr. Fidelis Anosike, Chairman of Folio Group and publisher of the Daily Times Newspaper, lauded the project as a forward-thinking endeavor with the potential to reshape global perceptions of Nigeria. He stressed that reconnecting with the diaspora through official documentation and cultural reintegration would deepen bonds and create a renewed sense of belonging among African descendants worldwide.
Anosike further highlighted the power of storytelling in bridging past and present, citing his forthcoming publication, The Nigerian Grand Book: Magnum Opus. This monumental work aims to chronicle Nigeria’s rich history, culture, and achievements, providing an extensive narrative that celebrates both indigenous and diasporic contributions to the nation’s legacy. He expressed confidence that initiatives like this will redefine Nigeria’s global identity, transforming the way its history is preserved and shared.
As Nigeria embarks on this pioneering journey to embrace its diasporic community, the collaboration between NiDCOM, NPC, and key stakeholders signals a new era of inclusion, recognition, and engagement. By documenting the descendants of the historic African Diaspora and integrating them into the country’s national framework, Nigeria is not only reclaiming its dispersed heritage but also unlocking vast opportunities for cultural enrichment, economic growth, and global influence.
