Federal Government has described the Nigerian diaspora community as one of the country’s most undervalued and underutilized assets, highlighting their significant economic contributions, including over $20 billion in remittances so far in 2024.
Gatekeepers News reports that Chairperson of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, made this known at a press conference announcing the 2025 National Diaspora Day (NDD) celebration and the 3rd National Diaspora Merit Awards (NDMA) in Abuja.
According to Dabiri-Erewa, “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.”
The NiDCOM boss emphasised the need to strategically engage the diaspora community, leveraging their knowledge, skills, networks, and goodwill to catalyze transformative development across the country.
The theme for this year’s celebration is “Optimising Formidable Diaspora Potentials for National Development and Growth.”
The event will feature thematic sessions, panel discussions, youth mentorship programs, and the National Diaspora Merit Awards, recognizing distinguished Nigerian diaspora who have made significant contributions to the nation.
Registration is currently open for both physical and virtual participation, and interested individuals can visit (www.nidcom.gov.ng/diasporaday) to sign up.
