The Diaspora Community and Migrants Foundation has unveiled plans to collaborate with key stakeholders to address the challenges faced by Africans living abroad.

During its maiden press briefing, the Foundation emphasized that the challenges faced by Africans in the diaspora are diverse, necessitating partnerships with relevant government agencies, embassies, organizations, and airlines, among others, to tackle these issues as they arise.

The Chairman of the Diaspora Community, Mr. Joseph Matthew, acknowledged the resilience and determination of the diaspora community and highlighted that their stories of struggle and triumph are testaments to the human spirit. He affirmed that the Foundation is committed to amplifying their voices and advocating for their rights.

“As we move forward, we recognise the importance of collaboration and partnership. We believe that by working together with governments, international organizations, and civil society, we can create a more just and equitable world for all migrants and diaspora communities,” Matthew stated.

He reiterated the Foundation’s dedication to promoting the social, economic, and cultural integration of migrants and diaspora communities by empowering them through education, training, and capacity-building programs.

Matthew added that the Foundation will advocate for policies and programs that uphold the rights and dignity of migrants while fostering partnerships that support their social, economic, and cultural development.

Additionally, he disclosed plans to launch an online platform, “DiasporaCommunity360,” aimed at enhancing the interconnectedness of migration, global economics, and international relations.

He noted that the Foundation has representatives across various countries and will be partnering with Nigerian embassies, the Nigerian Intelligence Agency (NIA), and other security agencies.

He also said that they have assembled a top legal team to assist Nigerians living in the diaspora.
The Continental President of the Diaspora Community, Dr. Idris Galadima, emphasized that migrants are not a nuisance, as some countries may perceive them, but rather contribute significantly to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of their host nations.

He underscored the need for greater support and integration of migrants and diaspora communities by governments to foster global peace and unity.

A member of the Foundation, Mr. Leomore Christ, stated that the organisation plans to use its platform to provide essential information to Nigerians relocating abroad, including insights into local challenges and how to address them.

“We will also be sensitising Nigerians to understand that not all that glitters is gold. They should not travel blindly to any country without proper guidance,” Christ said.

“We cannot adopt a one-size-fits-all approach to addressing issues affecting Nigerians in the diaspora, as each country has its own unique policies. This is why we will collaborate with relevant organisations to tackle these challenges.

“We will work with them on a case-by-case basis and provide information on how Nigerians should conduct themselves in different localities to avoid constituting a nuisance in foreign countries.”