Due to their close connection to both their country of origin and country of destination, diaspora members are often highly motivated to contribute to development in either one of those countries. Their network, language skills and cultural understanding put diaspora members in a unique position to share knowledge and skills across borders. A CD4D participant who illustrates the highly motivated nature of diaspora communities is Dr Ikechi Agbugba.
Dr. Ikechi Agbugba is a busy man; he is a researcher, university professor, speaker, technical advisor, advocate, diaspora ambassador, chairman… Nevertheless, Dr Agbugba found time to apply for a CD4D assignment at the Food Crop Production Technology Transfer Station (FCPTTS) in Ubiaja, Nigeria. As an agroeconomist, he used his expertise to organize training sessions for staff members and farmers on various food crops, recent technological innovations and organic farming. Moreover, Dr Agbugba developed a framework for crop production and distribution and a marketing strategy for the FCPTTS. His overall aim during the assignment was to support the facility in achieving food security in the region.
Out of an extended list of activities, he undertook during his time at the FCPTTS, Dr Agbugba views the development of a training module as one of his most important achievements. “My success story was that I developed a comprehensive, well-articulated training module as well as a workable plan and guide for the staff. And of course, that will also reach farmers as well”, so he says.
The diaspora expert hopes that his impact will last beyond the assignment. He explains that “the issue of sustainability is actually something that has to be specifically well focused. And that is what I am working on right now”. Moreover, he hopes that officials at the federal level will develop a structural approach to employing young staff at the facility. Dr Agbugba mentions that a new generation could bring the necessary creativity to drive innovations in agriculture.
In addition to his ideas to inspire young people to work in agriculture, he has plenty more ideas to work on in the future. Dr Ikechi Agbugba is therefore an excellent example of a diaspora member who is closely connected to his country of origin and highly motivated to make an impact. The CD4D team, therefore, looks forward to hearing more about his future achievements.
CD4D Ambassador Meeting