As part of renewed efforts by the Federal Government to tackle rising unemployment, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has entered into a strategic partnership with InnoPower Africa to connect young Nigerian professionals with remote job opportunities in diaspora-owned businesses across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
The partnership was formalised in Abuja during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Speaking at the event, NIDCOM Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said the collaboration aligns with the Commission’s mandate of leveraging the Nigerian diaspora as contributors to national development.
“NIDCOM is proud to champion this initiative that embodies our core mandate: mobilizing the Nigerian diaspora as active participants in solving our nation’s challenges,” she said.
“Nigerians abroad are employers, mentors, and champions who can directly create opportunities for their brothers and sisters at home.”
Founder of InnoPower Africa, Emil Ekiyor, described the partnership as a major step toward building a global talent ecosystem that showcases Nigeria’s skilled workforce. According to him, the initiative will work with several top institutions, including ITANA, to streamline the recruitment and deployment of Nigerian youths through a secure digital business zone.
He noted that the programme also partners with the University of Lagos’ African Research Universities Alliance Centre of Excellence for Unemployment and Skills Development, as well as the National Talent Export Programme (NATEP), to enhance training in technical skills, communication, and remote work competence.
“Nigerian talents are world-class, innovative, and ready to deliver exceptional value to businesses globally. What has been missing is not capability it is access, preparation, and connection,” Ekiyor said.
“Through this collaboration with NIDCOM and our talent ecosystem partners, we are building the infrastructure to make Nigerian professionals visible and competitive in markets where their skills are desperately needed.”
Ekiyor explained that the programme will begin with a paid internship initiative at the University of Lagos, giving high-achieving students hands-on experience with international companies.
Diaspora businesses registered in the NIDCOM database will also get significant discounts on their first year of service when they hire Nigerian professionals for at least one year.
He added that the project offers a clear pathway for students to transition from university into remote, full-time jobs, equipping them with global business exposure and professional readiness.
“At the core of this initiative is Fast Track Virtual (www.fasttrackvirtual.com), InnoPower’s talent placement platform that provides thorough vetting, advanced skills training, cultural competence development, and continuous quality assurance for Nigerian professionals and students seeking international work experience,” Ekiyor said.
The partnership is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s participation in the global digital workforce and boost employment opportunities for young people.
