The Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission has announced that fintech, ICT, agriculture, and other strategic sectors will take centre stage at the Nigerian Diaspora Economic Conference (NAIDEC) 2026.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NiDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, revealed that preparations are underway for the conference, scheduled to take place in the Greater Toronto Area, Canada, from August 13 to August 16.
She explained that the event is designed as a practical and results focused marketplace aimed at driving investment into sectors vital to Nigeria’s long term economic development.
According to her, the sectors to be highlighted include fintech, ICT and digital innovation, agriculture and agro processing, mining, renewable energy, infrastructure, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, real estate, banking, capital markets, and asset management.
Dabiri-Erewa noted that Canada was selected as host due to its large and highly skilled Nigerian diaspora community, which continues to make meaningful contributions across different industries.
“From Calgary to Toronto, Waterloo and Montreal, Nigerians are making significant contributions across sectors,” she said.
She added that the four day conference, themed “Invest Nigeria, Thrive Abroad,” is expected to connect global investors with viable and investment ready opportunities in Nigeria.
“We will also explore partnerships in education, including exchange programmes between universities abroad and in Nigeria.
“Our objective is to facilitate direct partnerships, business-to-business engagements and the signing of memoranda of understanding that will translate into jobs, technology transfer and sustainable development,” she said.
The NiDCOM boss further disclosed that the commission is working closely with the Nigerian High Commission in Canada, the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria, and the Government of Ontario to ensure the smooth organisation of the event.
She added that the conference will be part of a broader week long celebration of Nigerian achievements abroad. This will include the Flavours of Nigeria Festival and engagements with stakeholders in the creative industry.
Dabiri-Erewa encouraged Nigerian entrepreneurs, state governments, financial institutions, and diaspora professionals to take full advantage of the opportunities the conference offers.
She said the platform would not only attract investment but also help shape policies that support sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.
She also revealed that discussions are ongoing with Canadian authorities to ease visa processing for participants, while details for registration will be made available soon.
In his contribution, Akeem Araoye, a member of the Content Creation Committee in Canada who joined virtually, highlighted the broader importance of such gatherings for the African continent.
He said the conference would create an avenue to address key development priorities while strengthening collaboration between Africa and international partners.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the conference will take place in the Greater Toronto Area, Canada, from August 13 to August 16.
