NIDCOM launches diaspora startup challenge

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has unveiled a major push to deepen diaspora participation in national development with the launch of the Connected Diaspora x DOWA Startup Challenge and the announcement of its Connected Diaspora Flagship Event 2025, scheduled to hold in Lagos. Chairman/CEO of the commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri who briefed newsmen at the commission’sLagos office described the two initiatives as timely interventions designed to tap into the wealth of creativity, innovation, and expertise of Nigerians across the globe. The Startup Challenge, themed “Building, Breaking and Believing in Nigeria,” aims to inspire diaspora innovators while promoting knowledge transfer, enterprise development, and strategic investment.

With cash prizes of up to N1,000,000, the challenge will highlight groundbreaking ideas and support promising ventures conceived by Nigerians living abroad—further reinforcing the Federal Government’s commitment to engaging the diaspora as key drivers of economic growth.

As part of the broader engagement strategy, NIDCOM also announced that its Connected Diaspora Flagship Event will take place on December 19, 2025, in Lagos.

The gathering will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, tech leaders, and development partners for high-level discussions on Nigeria’s future.

The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, is expected as the Special Guest of Honour and will speak on the importance of government–diaspora collaboration in accelerating national development. Also billed to deliver the keynote address is Mr. Leo Stan Ekeh, Chairman of the Zinox Group, whose leadership and experience continue to inspire a generation of young Nigerian innovators.

The event will feature contributions from prominent diaspora professionals and key players in Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape, all aimed at shaping new pathways for meaningful engagement and national transformation.

NIDCOM expressed deep appreciation to its partners for their continued support, noting that such collaboration has been crucial in unlocking diaspora potential and driving economic advancement.

The Commission also called on public- and private-sector stakeholders to take advantage of the abundant opportunities offered through partnership, innovation, and sustained national commitment.

Young Nigerians and diaspora returnees were encouraged to enter the Startup Challenge before the December 7, 2025 deadline.

NIDCOM further revealed that the Lagos event will host a Diaspora Talent Career and Internship Fair, connecting returnees with internship opportunities offered by DOWA partner organizations—an initiative aimed at strengthening talent exchange and fostering national development.

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