The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has disclosed that Nigerians living abroad spent approximately N60 billion during their visits to Nigeria in December 2024.
In her statement, Dabiri-Erewa emphasized that over the past five years, remittances from Nigerians in the diaspora have surpassed $90 billion, highlighting the significant role the diaspora plays in the Nigerian economy. She made the remarks while defending NIDCOM’s 2025 budget before the National Assembly Joint Committee on Diaspora.
Praising the diaspora for their increasing involvement in nation-building, Dabiri-Erewa noted that NIDCOM has made significant progress by focusing on the potential of Nigerians abroad. “The diaspora is a powerful force, and we cannot ignore them. They are the number one ambassadors of our country, helping to change the narrative,” she said, emphasizing that Nigerians abroad are eager to invest and engage in the development of their home country.
She also pointed out the growth in diaspora engagement, particularly in December 2024, noting it was the result of years of sustained interaction. She highlighted NIDCOM’s efforts to explore innovative funding methods, including working with the National Assembly committee on Diaspora to strengthen the commission’s financial capacity.
Dabiri-Erewa proposed the creation of a Diaspora Plaza, a hub where Nigerians abroad could connect with government officials and learn about investment opportunities in Nigeria. She mentioned that many young Nigerians are eager to invest in local businesses and training programs, particularly in digital technology.
Senator Victor Umeh Raises Concerns Over Diaspora Voting
Meanwhile, Senator Victor Umeh, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora, expressed reservations about Nigeria’s readiness to allow diaspora voting. He cautioned that the country must first address the challenges within its domestic electoral system before extending voting rights to Nigerians abroad.
Umeh emphasized the need for reliable data and systems to manage diaspora voting effectively, warning that without proper preparation, the electoral process could face significant complications. “We must get properly organized before we open up to people voting from outside Nigeria,” he stated.
The senator also stressed the importance of supporting NIDCOM financially, noting that the commission has faced challenges due to inadequate funding. He assured that the National Assembly would advocate for an increase in NIDCOM’s budget for 2025 to enable it to continue its work effectively.
Umeh acknowledged the value of the diaspora community, underscoring their exposure to advanced cultures and efficient practices, which could benefit Nigeria’s development. He reiterated the necessity of tapping into the diaspora’s potential for the country’s economic growth.
