President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the Nigerians in Diaspora as “torch-bearers of excellence, whose the invaluable contributions to the progress of the country astonished.
While asserted that the Nigeria’s future depends on leveraging the knowledge, expertise, and global networks of its diaspora.
The President ably represented by the Secretary to the Government of Federation, Senator George Akume stated this at the 7th Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit in Abuja, called on Nigerians in the Diaspora to take active roles to build resilient economy to fast track prosperity for National Development.
Tinubu said Nigerians in Diaspora’s achievements are source of pride for the country and their potential to shape country’s future is undeniable.
On this year’s theme, “Adapting Stability through Diaspora Investment: Navigating the Path to Prosperity,”, President Tinubu said it’s resonates with the administration agenda of spreading prosperity to all Nigerians at home and those in the Diaspora.
He underscored his administration’s commitment to transformational reforms aimed at fostering economic stability, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange market.“Achieving stability and prosperity requires bold decisions, and we are taking strategic actions to place our nation on the right path,” the President added.
Senator Victor Umeh, Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora, NGOs and Civil Sicieties, reinforced the importance of diaspora investments in national development.
He highlighted that the skills and expertise of Nigerians abroad are essential assets while assured participants that the National Assembly stands ready to support diaspora initiatives through relevant legislations.
Hon. Sir Tochukwu Okere, Chairman, House Committee on Diaspora Affairs, emphasized that remittances from the diaspora rank second to oil and gas, contributing over $24 billion dollars annually to the economy. He expressed gratitude to the Diaspora and stressed the need to enhance sponsorship and leverage expertise to tackle current national challenges.
Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs represented by Amb Bolaji Akinremi, Director, Economic Cooperations, called for active engagement between the diaspora and the government, urging attendees to utilize the Global Health Desk and Nigerian Global Business Match Initiative to connect local businesses with international investors.
In her remarks, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO, NIDCOM, welcome participants and expressed special gratitude to those investing in Nigeria’s future across diverse sectors.
She highlighted inspiring stories of Nigerian Diasporans making significant contributions abroad while maintaining strong ties to home country, Nigeria.Dr. Badewa Adejugbe-Williams acknowledged the summit’s evolution into a powerful platform that connects the diaspora with opportunities in Nigeria.
“This seventh edition marks our successful journey, characterized by the extraordinary success stories, unwavering commitment to national advancement,” she stated.
Adejugbe-Williams emphasized the vital role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy and encouraged participants to leverage the summit for investment opportunities.
As the summit progresses, the Federal Government through NiDCOM reaffirms its commitment to collaborating with diaspora to foster a stable, prosperous, and sustainable investment ecosystem in Nigeria.
