Initiative to reverse brain drain launched
An initiative known as Return2Naija has been established to assist Nigerian migrants in their efforts to reintegrate, rebuild, and reimagine their homeland.
The program aims to deter Nigeria's most talented individuals from pursuing opportunities overseas, which has led to a considerable brain drain that jeopardizes the country's innovative capabilities and self-sufficiency.
John Aikeremiokha, the Nigeria Student Ambassador and founder of the initiative, noted that it has already attracted significant attention and support from high-ranking officials.
“The initiative was initially launched at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, with the First Lady present, showcasing a strong commitment at the national level. Subsequently, to enhance its global reach, the project was relaunched at the United Nations Headquarters.
This international recognition highlights the initiative’s potential to tackle complex issues such as organized crime while promoting the reintegration of skilled migrants,” he stated.
He emphasized that the primary goals of the initiative include reversing brain drain and encouraging Nigerian students studying abroad to return and contribute to the nation’s progress.
“On grassroots development, with dedicated funding, communities can gain resources to improve education, infrastructure, and economic opportunities. By repatriating talent, we can reduce our reliance on foreign expertise and build stronger, homegrown solutions to Nigeria’s challenges,” he added.
An initiative known as Return2Naija has been established to assist Nigerian migrants in their efforts to reintegrate, rebuild, and reimagine their homeland.
The program aims to deter Nigeria's most talented individuals from pursuing opportunities abroad, which has led to a considerable brain drain that jeopardizes the country's innovative capacity and self-sufficiency.
John Aikeremiokha, the Nigeria Student Ambassador and founder of the initiative, noted that it has already attracted considerable attention and support from high-ranking officials.
“The initiative was initially launched at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, with the First Lady present, signifying a strong commitment at the national level. Subsequently, to enhance its global reach, the project was relaunched at the United Nations Headquarters.
This international recognition highlights the initiative’s potential to tackle complex issues such as organized crime while facilitating the reintegration of skilled migrants,” he stated.
He emphasized that the primary goals of the initiative include reversing brain drain and encouraging Nigerian students studying abroad to return and contribute to the nation’s progress.
The initiative aligns with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), underscoring the significance of collaborative efforts in combating brain drain and fostering national development.
By advocating for reintegration and grassroots development, the Return2Naija Initiative aims to revive local talent and empower Nigeria’s future.
“I take pride in leading this transformative initiative. Our journey commences with a historic road trip from London to Nigeria, symbolizing our commitment to this cause. Throughout the trip, I will engage with over 700 local government chairpersons across Nigeria’s 36 states.
The goal is to secure their commitment to allocate 5% of their annual project budget towards grassroots development, ensuring that returning students are supported in utilizing and enhancing their skills where they are most needed: in Nigeria,” he concluded.
