In a landmark effort to harness the intellectual resources of Nigerians abroad, the Federal Government will on Monday, July 28, 2025, formally launch the Diaspora BRIDGE platform; a digital hub designed to connect diaspora-based professionals and scholars with universities and research institutions across Nigeria.
The project, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Education, is aimed at enhancing academic collaboration, boosting research productivity, and filling existing knowledge gaps in Nigeria’s tertiary education system by engaging its vast diaspora expertise.
According to a statement released on Wednesday, July 23, and signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations in the Ministry, the official unveiling ceremony will be held at the State House in Abuja. It will be presided over by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, alongside the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa.
The name Diaspora BRIDGE is an acronym for Bridging Research, Innovation, Development, and Global Engagement. It is designed as a strategic digital tool to enable Nigerian professionals in the diaspora to register, display their areas of expertise, and collaborate virtually with tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
“In a bold move to strengthen Nigeria’s engagement with its academic and professional diaspora, the Federal Ministry of Education will officially unveil the Diaspora BRIDGE Platform on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the State House, Abuja,” the statement read.
“The Diaspora BRIDGE platform is a strategic initiative to connect Nigerian professionals and academics abroad with universities, colleges of education, polytechnics, and research institutions across the country.”
Fostering Strategic Partnerships
Beyond just a connection tool, the Diaspora BRIDGE will allow local institutions to highlight their academic and research needs, inviting diaspora experts to collaborate on specific, demand-driven projects. This is expected to boost institutional development and address manpower shortages in key areas of the academic sector.
The Ministry explained that the platform integrates several digital tools, including:
- Virtual collaboration modules
- Research project tracking systems
- Academic matching algorithms
These features will interface with existing government platforms, such as the Tertiary Education Research Applications System (TERAS), ensuring transparency, policy alignment, and measurable impact in line with Nigeria’s education and development priorities.
Towards a Knowledge-Driven Future
The Federal Government believes this initiative will foster sustained, mutually beneficial partnerships between Nigeria’s academic community and its diaspora, with the broader aim of contributing to national development through education, innovation, and global research cooperation.
Stakeholders, university administrators, and the general public are encouraged to follow the live broadcast of the launch event on major television networks. Additional details, including registration guidelines and access to the platform, will be available on the official website: www.diaspora-bridge.ng after the launch.
