In a landmark initiative aimed at reconnecting African diaspora descendants with their Nigerian heritage, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and the National Population Commission (NPC) have joined forces to document and integrate members of the Historic African Diaspora (HAD) with ancestral ties to Nigeria.
During a strategic meeting in Abuja, NiDCOM Chairman/CEO, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating that it aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ and reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to engaging its diaspora for national growth.
She stressed that this effort is not just about retracing ancestry but also about fostering cultural and economic reintegration.
According to a statement issued on January 30, 2025, by NiDCOM’s Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, advanced data mapping techniques will be deployed to track and document the growing number of African diaspora descendants seeking to reconnect with Nigeria.
Dabiri-Erewa further encouraged members of the African Ancestry Reunion delegation to see Nigeria as their home, take part in the annual *Badagry Door of Return Festival*, and contribute to the country’s development.
Echoing this vision, NPC Chairman, Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, disclosed that the commission is working on new census modules that will formally recognize HAD descendants with Nigerian lineage.
He assured that NPC would issue official certificates and establish legal frameworks to grant them recognition as Nigerians.
Dr. Gina Paige, Co-founder and President of African Ancestry, expressed her excitement about the initiative, noting that her organization has been assisting African descendants in tracing their roots for over 20 years.
She called on Nigerian authorities to provide necessary legal documents, such as birth certificates and passports, to facilitate a smooth transition for diaspora members who wish to settle and invest in Nigeria.
Folio Group Chairman and publisher of *Daily Times Newspaper*, Fidelis Anosike, also commended the NiDCOM-NPC collaboration, describing it as a strategic step towards reshaping global narratives about Nigeria.
He emphasized the role of data-driven storytelling in strengthening diaspora relations and referenced his upcoming publication, *The Nigerian Grand Book: Magnum Opus*, which aims to celebrate Nigeria’s rich history, culture, and achievements.
