Diaspora law: ICT experts commend FG

Mr Fidelis Igbokwe, the Chief Executive Officer of TRPPN, a South Africa -based information and communication technology firm, said on Friday that the presidential assent to the Diaspora Commission Bill was a welcome development.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the law will establish the Diaspora Commission Act under the supervisory jurisdiction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The law has the responsibility to coordinate and organise Nigerians in and from the Diaspora to contribute human capital and material resources, including their expertise, for the development of the country and its constituent states.
The law will also provide a data base on various fields and potentials as resource base for Nigeria and the world to draw from as well as protect the interests of all Nigerians.
There are an estimated 15 million Nigerians abroad.
Igbokwe, who developed a travel and tourism application known as TRPPN, told the NAN in Johannesburg, South Africa, that many Nigerians abroad were willing to contribute to the development of the country.
“This is a welcome development because it shows that the government is active and through policies implementing what we have been yearning for.
“There are many willing to contribute to grow and empower Nigeria,” he said.
Igbokwe said some advanced countries encourage their citizens abroad and use their competence and resources to drive development.
He, however, urged government to match the policy with action by recognising and appreciating such qualified Nigerians willing to take advantage of the Diaspora law.
“Some Nigerian intellectuals stay abroad because the governments of their host countries recognise and appreciate them.
“Such governments allocate funds for research and projects.
“These intellectuals will ask government similar questions if they are willing to take such steps through funding ideas aimed at improving the standard of living in our country,” he said.
Igbokwe said government should consider encouraging such intellectuals to play positive roles in implementing the Diaspora law to enable it work.
News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).