By Olushola Okunlade
The British High Commissioner to Nigeria Dr Richard Montgomery CMG has reemphasized the important role of the Nigerian Diaspora in the United Kingdom and pledged more collaboration with the Nigerians in diaspora Commission.
He further stressed the need for enhanced trade and investment between both countries.
Speaking during a courtesy call to Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, and some Management staff in the Office in Abuja, the British High Commissioner stated further that the UK-Africa Summit scheduled to be held in May in the City of London, is a strategic opportunity to galvanize trade and investments for both countries and the African continent at large.
He commended Nidcom for initiating programs such as the Diaspora Investment Summit and several others.
Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa welcomed collaboration with the British High Commission and reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to continue to enhance engagement with the Diaspora.
She also underscored the imperatives of cultural exchanges, advocating the revival of the Cultural Road Show initially slated for 2020 but deferred due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Outlining the Commission’s activities and programmes, Dabiri-Erewa seized the opportunity to emphasize the importance of creating comprehensive sensitization and awareness for Nigerians planning to migrate to the UK, “We can’t stop migration, but as a government, we will create an enabling environment; Nigeria and the UK government should have an MOU, particularly on migration of health workers “ she stated.
Dabiri-Erewa expressed optimism ahead of the UK- Africa Investment Summit in London, and the role of the Nigerians in the UK in playing a catalytic role in bolstering partnerships between the UK, Nigeria, and the African continent.
