NiDCOM Launches Diaspora Startup Challenge, Unveils 2025 Flagship Event
By Rashidat O. Okunlade
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has unveiled the Connected Diaspora and DOWA Startup Challenge alongside its Connected Diaspora Flagship Event 2025, in a renewed push to mobilise global Nigerian talent for national development.
Speaking at a press briefing, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, described both initiatives as “timely, transformative, and strategically crafted to harness the creativity and entrepreneurial strength of Nigerians across the world.”
She explained that the Startup Challenge themed “Building, Breaking and Believing in Nigeria” aims to energise diaspora innovators, promote knowledge exchange, and stimulate enterprise growth critical to Nigeria’s evolving economy.
The competition offers cash prizes of up to ₦1 million, spotlighting high-impact ideas developed by Nigerians abroad and supporting the Federal Government’s commitment to engaging the diaspora as key partners in national advancement.
NiDCOM also announced that the Connected Diaspora Flagship Event will hold on December 19, 2025, in Lagos. The gathering will convene entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, technology leaders and partners for strategic discussions on Nigeria’s developmental future.
The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, will attend as Special Guest of Honour, where he is expected to speak on strengthening collaboration between government and the diaspora community.
According to Dabiri-Erewa, leading voices from the global Nigerian community and the local innovation ecosystem will enrich engagements at the event through expert contributions and thought-leadership sessions.
NiDCOM expressed appreciation to its partners for their unwavering support, noting that their collaboration continues to elevate diaspora potential and stimulate economic growth. The Commission also urged stakeholders across the public and private sectors to leverage the opportunities presented by the initiative.
Young Nigerians and diaspora returnees were encouraged to participate actively in the Startup Challenge, with entries closing on December 12, 2025.
A Diaspora Talent Career and Internship Fair scheduled as part of the December event will connect diaspora returnees with internship opportunities provided by DOWA partner organisations, promoting talent exchange and capacity development.
Programme Highlights
Call for Applications: November 18 – December 12, 2025
Public Voting (Instagram): December 13 – 17, 2025
Winner Announcement: December 18, 2025
Final Winner Presentation: December 19, 2025, at the JK Randle Centre
For more details:
Registration Link for the CONNECTED DIASPORA X DOWA Event: https://docs.google.com/forms/
Application Link for the BUILDING BREAKING AND BELIEVING IN NIGERIA CHALLENGE: https://www.dowafrica.org/
