The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has reassured Nigerians abroad that the country remains an investor-friendly destination despite recent concerns raised by some diaspora groups.
Her assurance comes in response to a protest and petition by the Foreign Investors Network (FIN), led by President Ifeoma Nkengwu and Country Representative Rev. Emmanuel Olorunmagba. The group had alleged that Nigeria’s investment climate was discouraging, citing the demolition of a real estate project in Okun Ajah, Lagos, reportedly worth over $250 million and undertaken by Winhomes Global Services Limited. According to the petitioners, the demolition was carried out on the orders of the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi.
Reacting to the matter, Dabiri-Erewa acknowledged that NiDCOM was contacted months after the issue had gained media attention.
“We began an investigation into the matter and had some of our officials visit the site,” she stated. “Unfortunately, we discovered the issue is already before the court, so we must allow the legal process to take its course.”
Despite the controversy, the NiDCOM boss reiterated that Nigeria remains open to investment, particularly from the diaspora community. She praised Nigerians abroad for their increasing involvement in sectors such as health, ICT, agriculture, real estate, and education.
She also noted that the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS) remained a credible platform for diaspora engagement and investment, and revealed that the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment is set to unveil new initiatives in collaboration with NiDCOM.
“As your embassy in Nigeria, we are always available to assist in navigating and clarifying any area of investment concern,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
She further commended the diaspora community for the growing remittances and investments recorded under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, added that the government remains committed to sustaining policies and programs that encourage diaspora contributions, which she described as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy.
