In a landmark move to harness the economic potential of Nigerians living abroad, Enugu State has announced the establishment of Diaspora Desks in all its Local Government Areas. This initiative was unveiled during the South-East edition of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission’s (NiDCOM) Sensitisation and Advocacy Programme to promote diaspora investment across the region.
Representing Governor Peter Mbah at the event, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia emphasized the vital role of the Nigerian diaspora in driving economic growth through remittances, expertise, and innovation. Onyia reiterated the state’s ambition to grow its GDP from $4.4 billion to $30 billion by creating an environment conducive to investment.
In her remarks, Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, stressed the importance of decentralizing diaspora engagement to motivate Nigerians abroad to invest in their home states. She praised the Enugu State Government for its proactive approach and noted that NiDCOM’s initiatives, including the Nigerian Diaspora Day and Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit, are tailored to sustain meaningful connections with Nigerians abroad.
Barr. Olangwa Ezekwu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Diaspora Matters, highlighted the significant financial impact of diaspora remittances, citing an IMF report that recorded $4.22 billion in remittances between January and October 2024. She added that over ₦60 billion was sent home in December alone, stressed the need for the South-East to channel these resources effectively.
The summit, attended by both physical and virtual participants, marked a pivotal step in unlocking the economic potential of diaspora contributions to the region and Nigeria at large. Stakeholders believe it provides a strategic pathway to boost local and national prosperity.
A similar summit was recently held in Lagos for the South-West zone, as NiDCOM continue its nationwide engagement to foster investments from Nigerians abroad.
