LAGOS, NIGERIA, DEC. 2 2025:
In a renewed effort to mobilise Nigerian talents globally and deepen diaspora engagement for national development, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has launched the Connected Diaspora x DOWA Start Up Challenge and announced the forthcoming Connected Diaspora Flagship Event 2025.
In a statement by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, the Commission described both initiatives as timely, transformative and strategically positioned to harness the creativity, expertise and entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerians across the world.
The Connected Diaspora x DOWA Start Up Challenge, themed: “Building, Breaking and Believing in Nigeria”, is designed to energise diaspora innovators and promote knowledge transfer, enterprise development and strategic investment aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s rapidly expanding economy.
With cash prizes of up to ₦1,000,000, the challenge seeks to spotlight exceptional ideas and support impactful ventures developed by Nigerians abroad, reinforcing the Federal Government’s broader commitment to engaging the diaspora as crucial partners in national progress.
In the same vein, NiDCOM announced that the Connected Diaspora Flagship Event will hold on December 19,
2025 in Lagos, bringing together entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, tech leaders and strategic partners for high level conversations on Nigeria’s future.
The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, slated as Special Guest of Honour, will address the importance of government and diaspora collaboration in accelerating national development.
The event will also feature a keynote address by Mr Leonard Stanley Ekeh, Chairman of Zinox Group, whose wealth of experience continues to inspire young innovators.
Other notable contributors drawn from the diaspora and Nigeria’s entrepreneurship ecosystem will enrich the discussions and contribute to shaping pathways for meaningful engagement.
NiDCOM extended heartfelt appreciation to its partners whose support remains invaluable in driving the success of the initiative, stating that their commitment continues to enhance the potential of the Nigerian diaspora and promote economic advancement. The Commission further called on stakeholders across the public and private sectors to join in this noble effort and seize the abundant opportunities available for collaboration, innovation and nation building.
NiDCOM encouraged young Nigerians and diaspora returnees to participate actively in the Connected Diaspora x DOWA Start Up Challenge, noting that entries close on December 7, 2025.
The Commission also announced that the December event will include a Diaspora Talent Career and Internship Fair designed to connect diaspora returnees with internship opportunities provided by DOWA partner organisations, thereby strengthening talent exchange and promoting national development.
E-Signed.
Abdur-Rahman Balogun (mnipr)
Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols (NIDCOM) Abuja.