In a significant move to bolster the national image and address pressing issues faced by Nigerians abroad, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) have strengthened their partnership. This collaboration aims to tackle fraud cases involving Nigerians in the diaspora and enhance the overall perception of the nation.
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, expressed her appreciation for the EFCC’s crucial role in resolving numerous fraud cases during a recent courtesy visit to the EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, and his management team in Abuja.
Dabiri-Erewa emphasized that the mere mention of the EFCC acts as a deterrent to fraudulent activities, significantly contributing to the protection of Nigerians’ reputations abroad.
The discussions during this meeting revolved around critical issues impacting the Nigerian diaspora, particularly regarding remittances and the broader image of the nation on the international stage. Dabiri-Erewa acknowledged the EFCC’s prompt and effective handling of cases referred by NiDCOM, which has been instrumental in addressing concerns within the diaspora community.
Highlighting the challenges faced by NiDCOM, the Chairman raised the urgent need for improved office accommodation and sought the EFCC’s support in overcoming this hurdle. Furthermore, she outlined several key initiatives undertaken by NiDCOM, including the National Diaspora Policy, Diaspora Data Mapping, and the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS), among others.
Dabiri-Erewa also addressed the stigma associated with Nigerian passport holders, noting that NiDCOM’s efforts are gradually reshaping this narrative. In response, Olukoyede revealed ongoing efforts to recover stashed and stolen funds linked to Nigeria, which have been invested in various assets worldwide. He assured NiDCOM of the EFCC’s commitment to partnering in initiatives aimed at revamping the negative image perpetuated by the actions of a few.
