NATIONAL DIASPORA DAY
CELEBRATION 2026
"HARNESSING GLOBAL DIASPORA MEDICAL EXPERTISE
TO STRENGTHEN LOCAL HEALTH SYSTEMS FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPEMENT"
Fri. 24th – Sat. 25th, July 2026
Presidential Villa, Abuja
National Diaspora Day is an annual event organized by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) to recognize, celebrate, and engage Nigerians living abroad and their contributions to the country’s development.

Purpose of National Diaspora Day
The event aims to:
• Recognize the contributions of Nigerians abroad to the country’s economy and development.
• Strengthen engagement between the Nigerian government and the diaspora community.
• Encourage diaspora investment in sectors such as agriculture, ICT, healthcare, and real estate.
• Promote partnerships between diaspora professionals and local institutions.
• Discuss policies and programs that support diaspora participation in national development.
Why the Nigerian diaspora matters
Nigeria’s diaspora community plays a major role in the economy through:
• Remittances (billions of dollars sent home annually)
• Investments and entrepreneurship
• Knowledge and technology transfer
• International networks that support trade and development

1. Connect with National Priorities
Focuses on structured diaspora engagement, especially initiatives like improving Nigeria’s healthcare system.
2. Networking Opportunities
Brings together government, investors, and professionals to create partnerships and new opportunities.
3. Showcase Your Work
Provides a platform to promote your business, skills, or projects to potential collaborators and investors.
4. Learn from Experts
Offers discussions and insights on key sectors shaping Nigeria’s development.
5. Cultural & Community Engagement
Strengthens national identity and connects Nigerians across the globe.
6. Policy Influence
Allows diaspora members to contribute ideas that can shape national policies and development strategies
Target Audiences
1. Nigerians living abroad (the Nigerian Diaspora)
People of Nigerian descent residing outside Nigeria are central to this event, as the day celebrates their contributions and encourages deeper engagement with national development goals.
2. Diaspora professionals and experts
Doctors, engineers, academics, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals in the diaspora are encouraged to participate, especially given the focus on diaspora-led health and knowledge initiatives linked to the celebration.
3. Diaspora investors and business leaders
People looking to explore investment opportunities in Nigeria’s economy are welcome. Events like the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (often linked with Diaspora Day) are designed for investors and entrepreneurs from abroad and locally with a global mindset.
4. Government officials and policymakers
Representatives from Nigerian government agencies, foreign missions, and diaspora-focused bodies often attend to engage with diaspora communities and discuss policy, investment, and partnership opportunities.
5. Youth and student leaders in the diaspora
Young Nigerian leaders, professionals, and youth representatives abroad are part of gatherings tied to Diaspora Day, especially with increasing focus on youth engagement and programs.
6. Community and cultural organizations
Associations that represent Nigerian communities overseas often attend to network, share experiences, and collaborate on cultural or development initiatives.

Special Guest of Honor
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR
President of Nigeria
Keynote Speaker – Merit Award
Hon. Kashim Shettima GCON
Vice President of Nigeria
Special Guest
Dr George Akume
Secretary to the Government of the Federation
Special Guest
Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa
Minister of Education of Nigeria
Speaker / Resource person
Dr. Michael Adekunle Charles
CEO of REM Partnership to End Malaria
Keynote Speaker – Youth Summit
Mr. Ayodele Olawande
Minister of Youth Development
Goodwill Message
Engr. Alfred Okoigun
GMD, ARCO Group PLC.
SPEAKERS

Hon. Minister of Health & Social Welfare

Minister of State for Health & Social Welfare

Registrar, Medical & Dental Council of Nigeria

President, Nigerian Medical Assocation (NMA)
Chief Host
Hon. Abike Dabiri – Erewa
Chairman / CEO., (NIDCOM)
Co – Host
Hon. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory
NDD 2026 | Confirmed Resource Persons
















