Nigerians Abroad Remit Over $90 Billion in Five Years
Nigerians in the diaspora have contributed over $90 billion in remittances over the past five years, significantly supporting national development, according to Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
Speaking at a workshop in Abuja organized by the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER) in collaboration with NiDCOM, Dabiri-Erewa highlighted the crucial role of the Nigerian diaspora in shaping the country’s economy. Themed “A Six-Continent Survey of Nigerian Professionals in Diaspora: Policy Measures for Harnessing Contributions to National Development,” the event focused on leveraging diaspora expertise for national progress.
Dabiri-Erewa stressed the need for accurate data to better understand the contributions, challenges, and opportunities within the Nigerian professional diaspora. She stated that NiDCOM aims to use this data to implement policies that enhance diaspora engagement, strengthen ties with Nigeria, and maximize their economic impact.
She also commended Prof. Antonia Taiye Simbine, Director-General of NISER, for spearheading research on Nigerian professionals abroad and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between the institutions.
Unlocking the Full Potential of the Diaspora
Prof. Simbine noted that with over 17 million Nigerians living overseas, the research will serve as a foundation for strategic policies that harness their expertise and investments. She acknowledged NiDCOM’s dedication to diaspora engagement, calling it a vital element for Nigeria’s sustainable development.
Hon. Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, Chairman of the House Committee on National Planning and Economy, emphasized the financial impact of diaspora remittances, which have consistently ranged between $17.2 billion and $20 billion annually. He urged that Nigerians abroad should be seen as co-partners in development rather than peripheral stakeholders.
Isiaka referenced the Central Bank of Nigeria’s plan to issue a diaspora bond and called on government agencies to create platforms that encourage meaningful engagement with Nigerians abroad to fully harness their expertise and financial contributions.
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