Bridges to the Future: Diaspora Leaders Convene in Lagos for Sovereignty Summit

In a landmark move toward strengthening continental ties, the annual Africa and Diaspora Integration Summit officially kicked off today at the Lagos Continental Hotel. Under the theme "The Future of Repatriation: Journey to African Sovereignty," the summit has brought together a diverse cohort of policymakers, legal experts, and economic strategists. The atmosphere is one of high-stakes collaboration as the commission seeks to transform the concept of "returning home" into a structured, sustainable reality for millions of Africans living abroad.

​Leading the discourse, Annabel Bonney, Convener and Founder of the Africa Diaspora Integration Commission (ADIC), emphasized that repatriation is no longer just a sentimental journey but a critical economic pillar. Alongside her, Jermaine Sanwo-Olu, Senior Special Assistant on Diaspora Affairs, highlighted the Nigerian government's commitment to creating a seamless transition for returnees. The discussions today are centered on breaking down the systemic barriers that have historically made reintegration difficult, from complex residency paperwork to land acquisition hurdles.

​A significant portion of the morning session focused on the legal and logistical "roadmaps" necessary for success. Notable legal minds, including immigration lawyer Abe Joshua and property expert Theokalus Asotie, provided actionable insights into navigating the Nigerian regulatory landscape. By addressing the "red tape" head-on, the summit aims to provide the diaspora with the confidence needed to invest their skills and capital back into the local economy, particularly in the booming real estate and tech sectors.

​The event has also drawn high-level institutional support, proudly endorsed by the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA). This collaboration signals a unified front between the private sector and government agencies, ensuring that the strategies discussed today are backed by official policy. Cultural diplomat Ambassador James Anago-Osho reminded attendees that while the economic incentives are vital, the "sovereignty" of the continent relies equally on a cultural homecoming that honors African heritage and identity.

As the summit concludes its first sessions this afternoon, the message is clear: Africa is open for its children to return, not just as visitors, but as stakeholders. The Organizers hope that the "Real Strategies" developed here today will serve as the definitive blueprint for the next generation of African global citizens looking to build their futures on the continent.