Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, have called for stronger collaboration with Nigerians in the diaspora to boost national development.
The appeal was made during the ConnectEDiaspora Fireside Chat 2024, a networking event held in Lagos in partnership with NiDCOM’s Homestrings Programme. The event coincided with a report from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) indicating a surge in diaspora remittances, which increased from $336.61 million in September 2024 to $402.38 million in October 2024.
Represented by his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Governor Sanwo-Olu urged Nigerians abroad to preserve their cultural identity and contribute to Nigeria’s development. Sharing his personal experience of returning to Nigeria after working in the United States, he advised diasporas to explore opportunities in the country rather than dwell on its challenges.
“Many foreigners are thriving in Nigeria despite its challenges. As Nigerians, we should focus on identifying opportunities and contributing positively to our nation’s growth,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Hon. Dabiri-Erewa, in her remarks, praised the achievements of Nigerians in the diaspora and their contributions to the nation’s socio-economic development. She noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is working to address Nigeria’s challenges through proactive reforms and policies.
She also commended the 61.1% year-on-year growth in diaspora remittances from January to October 2024, attributing the increase to improved trust and the implementation of favorable policies by the CBN.
“The growing investment and commitment from Nigerians in the diaspora underscore their dedication to building a stronger Nigeria,” she added, while reiterating NiDCOM’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with diasporas and supporting innovation and youth empowerment.
The event featured an array of distinguished guests, including award-winning actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, World Chess Champion Tunde Onakoya, and DG SMEDAN Charles Odii. Notable panelists included Genevieve Nkiruka Wakeley-Jones of the British Nigeria Law Forum and Dr. Joyce Omatseye, founder of AYA NINI Health.
The program, led by Connected Diaspora founders Siji Abere and Nosa Okunsebor, aimed to empower young Nigerians in technology and innovation through strategic partnerships.
