By Maureen Okon
The Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) says fintech, ICT and digital innovation, agriculture, and other key sectors will feature prominently at the Nigerian Diaspora Economic Conference (NAIDEC) 2026.
The Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, disclosed this at a news conference in Abuja ahead of the conference which will hold in the Greater Toronto Area, Canada, from Aug. 13 to Aug. 16.
She said the conference would focus on a structured, outcome-driven marketplace targeting high-impact sectors critical to Nigeria’s future growth.
According to her, the high-impact sectors include fintech, ICT and digital innovation, agriculture and agro-processing, mining, renewable energy, infrastructure, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, real estate, banking, capital markets and asset management.
Dabiri-Erewa said Canada was chosen as host because it is home to a highly skilled and accomplished segment of the Nigerian diaspora.
“From Calgary to Toronto, Waterloo and Montreal, Nigerians are making significant contributions across sectors,” she said.
She said the four-day event, themed “Invest Nigeria, Thrive Abroad”, would serve as a bridge connecting global investors to investment-ready opportunities in Nigeria.
“We will also explore partnerships in education, including exchange programmes between universities abroad and in Nigeria.
“Our objective is to facilitate direct partnerships, business-to-business engagements and the signing of memoranda of understanding that will translate into jobs, technology transfer and sustainable development,” she said.
Dabiri-Erewa added that NiDCOM was collaborating with the Nigerian High Commission in Canada, the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria and the Government of Ontario to ensure a seamless event.
She said the conference would coincide with a week-long celebration of Nigerian excellence, including the Flavours of Nigeria Festival and engagements with the creative industry.
The NiDCOM boss urged Nigerian entrepreneurs, state governments, financial institutions and diaspora professionals to take advantage of the platform.
She said the conference would also provide an opportunity to shape policy, attract investment and contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.
Dabiri-Erewa added that arrangements were underway with Canadian authorities to facilitate visa processing for participants, while registration details would be announced soon.
In his remarks, Mr Akeem Araoye, a member of the Content Creation Committee in Canada, who joined the event virtually, underscored the importance of such engagements for Africa.
He said the conference would provide a platform to discuss critical development priorities and strengthen partnerships between Africa and global stakeholders.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Emmanuel Yashim
