“Nigeria needs Diaspora for Sustainable Development”

Olaniyi Ogunleye has an academic background in Computing and Information Technology in Europe, followed by an MBA. “For over a year I was in Lagos running my own IT consulting company, offering services focused on digital transformation for organizations plus skills development and training to the community. I feel connected to Nigeria, my country of origin and my business gave me a clear insight into the country’s technical challenges and opportunities aimed to benefit the wider community.

The pandemic allowed me to reflect on how I wanted to use my skills, experience and strategy to support my country and I realized I can make a substantial difference. I learned about the CD4D programme on the internet whilst doing some research on international organizations that support African countries. IOM being an intergovernmental organization is impartial and trustworthy, which is why I applied for an assignment.”

IOM’s Focal Point in Nigeria connected Olaniyi to Nigerian Communications Satellite Ltd. (NIGCOMSAT) in Abuja, an opportunity which immediately appealed to him: “I am keen to share my knowledge in technical and digital innovation with the public sector because it benefits everyone in the country. IT is booming in Nigeria, which also motivates me to return. And the government realizes the importance of digitalization for all. By sharing my expertise, I can contribute to realizing that goal.”

NIGCOMSAT, supervised by the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, provides nationwide information and communication technology. The aim and objectives of Olaniyi’s assignment is to advise the agency on how to build and improve their service infrastructure and on innovative technology in line with international standards, and to train staff to use new software applications.

“It sounds ambitious, but IOM’s Focal Point in coordination with NIGCOMSAT formulates clear deliverables. This allows me to focus on the job in hand. CD4D creates a perfect match by linking diaspora experts to public sector institutions. I can fully recommend CD4D to diaspora who are interested to contribute to Nigeria’s sustainable development.”