The Diaspora Expert Creates a Bond and Trust

Host Institution: Nigerian Communications Satellite Ltd. (NIGCOMSAT), Abuja, Nigeria
Mrs. Hadiza Baloni-Oniyangi, Senior Manager Corporate Strategy

“I am responsible for communicating the company’s strategic initiatives whilst ensuring alignment of our organizational goals by all staff. Currently we are in the process of initiating a digital transformation programme at NIGCOMSAT. The plan, as envisioned by the Managing Director Dr. Abimbola Alale, is to leverage on emerging technology and change our business and operating models to ensure that we operate more effectively. IOM’s CD4D2 programme gives us the opportunity to obtain high-level expertise from IT experts who will guide and supervise the process.

Our staff require continuous capacity building to be able to keep up with global emerging technology trends and practices in the global satellite industry. Training is especially required in the area of ICT and digital skills. Our organization’s supervising Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy informed me about diaspora involvement through the CD4D2 programme, this is one of the many ways in which the Honourable Minister, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami) has encouraged the implementation of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy.

Through the assignment we hope to get an ample amount of knowledge transfer, advice and recommendations from the diaspora expert on strategies and processes. This will help in sustaining our digital transformation processes.

Being from the same country as the diaspora expert creates a bond and trust, which helps in breaking down a lot of barriers. The expert typically has an understanding of the setting and challenges in the Nigerian business/public sector and this makes it much easier to relate.”

Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited NIGCOMSAT is a company under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy. As the leading satellite communication solutions provider in Nigeria and Africa, NIGCOMSAT has positive impact on national development in various sectors such as communications, health, education, agriculture, aviation, environment and national security.