In a bid to harness the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerians worldwide, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has unveiled the Connected Diaspora x DOWA Start Up Challenge alongside the Connected Diaspora Flagship Event 2025.
Speaking at a press conference, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, described the initiatives as timely and transformative platforms aimed at mobilising diaspora talent for national growth.
“The Connected Diaspora x DOWA Start Up Challenge, themed ‘Building, Breaking and Believing in Nigeria’, is designed to energise diaspora innovators and promote knowledge transfer, enterprise development, and strategic investment to strengthen Nigeria’s rapidly expanding economy,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
The challenge offers cash prizes of up to ₦1,000,000 and seeks to spotlight exceptional ideas and support impactful ventures developed by Nigerians abroad, reinforcing the Federal Government’s commitment to engaging the diaspora as crucial partners in national development.
The NiDCOM boss also revealed that the Connected Diaspora Flagship Event will take place on December 19, 2025, in Lagos. The event will bring together entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, tech leaders, and strategic partners for high-level discussions on Nigeria’s future.
Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, is slated as Special Guest of Honour and is expected to address the critical role of government-diaspora collaboration in accelerating national development.
NiDCOM acknowledged the support of its partners, describing their contribution as vital to unlocking the full potential of the Nigerian diaspora and promoting economic advancement. The Commission also called on public and private stakeholders to actively participate in the initiatives to drive innovation and nation-building.
Young Nigerians and diaspora returnees are encouraged to participate in the Start Up Challenge, with entries closing on December 12, 2025. The December event will also feature a Diaspora Talent Career and Internship Fair to connect returnees with internship opportunities offered by DOWA partner organisations.
Programme Highlights:
Call for Applications: Nov. 18 – Dec. 12, 2025
Public Voting (Instagram): Dec. 13 – Dec. 17, 2025
Winner Announcement: Dec. 18, 2025
Final Winner Presentation at JK Randle Centre: Dec. 19, 2025
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