Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has earmarked N1 billion for establishment of a Diaspora Research Centre at the University of Ibadan.

This was disclosed during a courtesy visit by Chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, to TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Sonny Echono.

Echono had, in August 2022, unveiled plan to partner with NiDCOM towards promoting domestication of modern research and innovation techniques, and had given assurance that the agency would consciously support diaspora engagements for national development.

The NiDCOM boss, while expressing admiration for TETFund’s partnership, said the centre will be the first of its kind in Africa, with potential to shape the landscape of research and development in the continent.

She told the management of TETFund that NiDCOM was in contact with University of Ibadan to discuss groundwork, models and implementation plans.

Echono, on his part, commended NiDCOM for its nation building efforts and advocacy for collaboration on research, noting that vision for the centre followed recommendation by NiDCOM.

He said N1 billion was provided in TETFund’s 2023 budgetary allocation under its Special Intervention Initiative for establishment of the centre, and that an allocation letter was given to University of Ibadan in May 2023, with recommendation that the institution submits implementation plan for effective take-off of activities.

He added: “The centre is proposed to house a rich collection of African diaspora and transnational studies resources, including textbooks, archival documents, audio and video tapes, online resources, microfilms and other related materials.

“It is as well intended to serve as a flagship scientific hub for teaching, research, and other academic activities related to diaspora and transnational studies. The proposal indicates that the facility shall be an incubator for hosting experts, practitioners, and policy professionals with interest and experience in research, including hosting fellowship and exchange programmes, to produce truly globally impactful diaspora and transnational knowledge.”