Despite remitting over $20 billion in 2024, the Federal Government says the Nigerian diaspora remains one of the country’s most underutilised assets.
The Federal Government has described the Nigerian diaspora as an underutilised national asset despite contributing over $20 billion in remittances in 2024 alone. Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, made this known while unveiling plans for the 2025 National Diaspora Day celebration in Abuja.
“Undeniably, they are among Nigeria’s greatest exports, yet remain one of our most underutilised assets,” she said, noting that remittances in 2024 surpassed foreign direct investment. She stressed the need to harness the diaspora’s broader value—skills, networks, and innovation.
The event, scheduled for July 25–26, will feature thematic sessions, panel discussions, youth mentorship programmes, and the National Diaspora Merit Awards.
With over 20 million Nigerians abroad, Dabiri-Erewa said it was time to embed diaspora efforts into national development structurally.
Initiatives such as the National Diaspora Policy and the Diaspora Investment Summit reflect the government’s efforts to shift from celebration to collaboration. Registration is open for physical and virtual participation.