Nigeria is ramping up efforts to convert diaspora wealth into tangible economic growth with the official announcement of the Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference (NIDEC) 2026 by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
The high-profile conference is set to take place from August 13 to 15, 2026, at the Apollo Convention Center in Toronto (Mississauga), Canada, bringing together global Nigerian professionals, investors, and policymakers under one roof.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, NiDCOM Chairman/CEO, Hon. (Dr) Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the event as a “game-changer” in Nigeria’s diaspora engagement strategy. She emphasized the urgent need to redirect over $20 billion in annual diaspora remittances toward productive investments that can drive sustainable development.
“Nigerians abroad are not just sending money home—they are bringing expertise, innovation, and global networks,” she said. “NIDEC 2026 is about unlocking that full potential for national development”, the NIDCOM boss added.
With the theme “Invest Nigeria, Thrive Abroad,” the conference will focus on unlocking opportunities across critical sectors such as fintech, ICT, agriculture, renewable energy, healthcare, real estate, and financial markets.
NiDCOM noted that the conference will prioritize results-driven engagements, including business matchmaking, direct investment partnerships, and the signing of key agreements aimed at boosting job creation and technology transfer.
Organised in partnership with the Nigerian High Commission in Ottawa and the Canadian High Commission in Abuja, the event is designed to ensure smooth participation for both local and international delegates.
Beyond business, attendees will also experience a vibrant showcase of Nigerian culture through a week-long celebration featuring the Flavours of Nigeria Festival and the debut of the HEADIES Honors in Canada—marking a historic moment for Afrobeats on the global stage.
Dabiri-Erewa urged stakeholders—including state governments, entrepreneurs, financial institutions, and diaspora professionals—to take advantage of the platform to pitch viable projects, secure funding, and influence economic policy.
To facilitate attendance, NiDCOM revealed that discussions are ongoing with Canadian authorities to introduce a special Event Code (RRRC) visa process, alongside plans to launch a dedicated registration portal.
Also speaking, Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to Canada, Ambassador Abba Zanna-Kawu, assured that preparations are underway to deliver a world-class event with lasting impact.
With a strong lineup of participants expected from across the globe, NIDEC 2026 is poised to become a defining moment in Nigeria’s push to harness diaspora capital, expertise, and influence for long-term economic transformation.