HOMECOMING INITIATIVE: DIASPORA NIGERIANS VISIT NPC, SEEK RETURN AND RECOGNITION

Today, in a significant gesture of solidarity and cultural reconnection, the Chairman of National Population Commission (NPC), Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, fnsa received a joint delegation at the NPC headquarters, Abuja. The delegation, led by Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), included representatives from Africa Ancestry and The Daily Times.

Dr. Dabiri-Erewa highlighted that members of Africa Ancestry have successfully traced their lineage back to Nigeria through DNA testing, affirming their identity as Nigerians eager to return and contribute to their homeland's development. She emphasized that NIDCOM, tasked with engaging the diaspora in Nigeria's growth, aims to facilitate the issuance of birth certificates by the NPC to these returning citizens.

"The National Population Commission plays a crucial role in recognizing our diaspora," Dr. Dabiri-Erewa stated, urging that these individuals be counted in the upcoming Population and Housing Census.

Dr. Gina Paige, President and Co-founder of Africa Ancestry, shared a poignant reminder of the historical injustices faced by black people in the U.S.A, noting they were not included in population statistics until 1870. "We seek your assistance to come home officially. We want to pave the way for other Nigerians to return," she implored, underscoring the need for birth certificates and Nigerian passports to facilitate their transition.

Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Paige affirmed the readiness of these diaspora Nigerians to lend their expertise and resources to enhance Nigeria's development.

In response, NPC Chairman, Hon. Kwarra assured the delegation that the NPC would collaborate with NIDCOM to expedite the issuance of birth notification certificates, enabling them to secure 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," he remarked.

Furthermore, Hon. Kwarra stated that the Commission is working to accurately account for the Nigerian diaspora, reinforcing the importance of their contributions to national growth.

Fidelis Anosike, Publisher of The Daily Times, emphasized his firm's role in reshaping Nigeria's narrative through ongoing project that would be launched on 29th May 2025. He expressed optimism that through collaboration with NIDCOM and NPC, they could achieve reliable data on Nigeria's population, both domestically and abroad.

This initiative marks a pivotal step towards recognizing and embracing the contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora, fostering a renewed sense of belonging and community.