NIGERIANS IN DIASPORA: KEY PARTNERS IN NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION
HON ENGR ESOSA IYAWE.
On Tuesday, I had the honour of attending The State Diaspora Focal Point Summit hosted by the Cross River State Government in partnership with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM). The summit had as its theme: “Nigerians in Diaspora as Agents for the Positive Transformation of Nigeria and State Involvement as a Platform for Diaspora Engagement in National Development.” The event brought together notable leaders and policymakers including the Deputy Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs, Senator Anthony Yaro, the Chairman, House Committee on Diaspora, Hon. Tochukwu Okere, and the Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, OON, among others.
While speaking at the summit, I emphasized the urgent need for Nigerians living abroad to take advantage of the recent CBN reforms, which have made exchange rates more competitive and business-friendly. These reforms are designed to attract and encourage foreign remittances and investments, enabling Nigerians in the diaspora to engage in profitable ventures, establish businesses, and contribute meaningfully to the economic transformation of our nation.
Indeed, Nigerians in the diaspora have continued to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to national growth through their remittances, expertise, and innovative ideas. Their influence is felt across vital sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure development. With their global exposure, skills, and access to international opportunities, they remain strategic partners in promoting good governance, sustainable development, and youth empowerment back home.
As a nation, we must continue to create policies and frameworks that not only recognize their contributions but also provide avenues for effective collaboration and reintegration. The government at all levels must strengthen engagement with the diaspora community, fostering partnerships that will transform ideas into tangible results. Together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria—one where every citizen, at home or abroad, plays a role in shaping a brighter future.
