Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, says Nigerians living abroad remain the most underutilised asset in the drive for national development.
StarReporters reports that she made the statement during a press conference announcing the 2025 National Diaspora Day (NDD) celebration, which will also feature the 3rd National Diaspora Merit Awards (NDMA), scheduled to hold in Abuja from July 25 to July 26.
The theme for this year’s event is: “Optimising Formidable Diaspora Potentials for National Development and Growth.”
Dabiri-Erewa said the theme represents more than just a conversation starter, calling it a national imperative that urges Nigerians to act decisively in harnessing the global strength of the over 20 million-strong diaspora community.
She described Nigerians in the diaspora as resilient changemakers, solution providers, and proud ambassadors of the country.
“From medicine to education, technology to tourism, business to sports, arts to governance, our diaspora continues to influence global conversations and spearhead innovation, development and growth,” she said.
“Undeniably, they are among Nigeria’s greatest exports, yet remain one of our most underutilised assets for national development. In 2024 alone, remittances from Nigerians abroad exceeded $20 billion, surpassing foreign direct investment.”
She noted that beyond these figures lies a wealth of knowledge, skills, networks and goodwill that, if properly engaged, can spark transformative growth across Nigeria’s regions.
Dabiri-Erewa highlighted progress made in diaspora engagement, including the appointment of State Diaspora Focal Point Officers to integrate diaspora issues into national and grassroots planning.
“Diaspora Nigerians are now more actively involved in areas like policy, housing, health, education and mentorship,” she stated.
She also referenced key initiatives such as the National Diaspora Policy, the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit and the Data Mapping Project as steps that have shifted engagement from theory to tangible impact.
This year’s celebration, according to her, represents both a renewed commitment and an elevated platform.
“It’s about building a Nigeria where the diaspora is not only seen and heard, but structurally embedded—not just celebrated occasionally,” she added.
She stressed the importance of creating frameworks that allow Nigerians abroad to contribute beyond remittances, through intellectual capital, policy influence and business collaboration.
Highlighting activities lined up for the event, she announced the launch of the Diaspora Home and Abroad housing platform and wealth creation initiatives through investment.
The hybrid event, to be held at the State Conference Centre, Presidential Villa, Abuja, will welcome participants from across the world.
“Whether you are joining from Lagos, London, Los Angeles, Lyon, Longjing or Lisbon—you are seen, valued and celebrated,” she said.
The two-day event will include thematic sessions, panel discussions, youth mentorship, strategic dialogue, networking, and the National Diaspora Merit Awards to honour outstanding diaspora Nigerians.
She added that there would also be vibrant cultural displays and encouraged prospective participants to register online or follow NiDCOM’s official social media channels for updates.
(NAN)