Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ At the Africa Diaspora Day on the Hill event, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, chair and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), highlighted the significant contributions of the Nigerian diaspora to the country’s economy. She revealed that Nigerian expatriates contribute a staggering $20 billion annually in remittances, which accounts for 6.1% of Nigeria’s GDP. This underscores the critical role of diaspora Nigerians in the nation’s economic growth and development.
The event, held at the U.S. Capitol as part of the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference in Washington, DC, focused on the strategic importance of the global African diaspora. Dabiri-Erewa emphasized that Nigerians abroad are key partners in the country’s development, excelling in various sectors and driving progress worldwide.
NiDCOM has launched several initiatives to optimize the contributions of diaspora Nigerians, including the National Diaspora Policy, Diaspora Data Mapping/Registration Portal, Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS), and the Diaspora Mortgage Scheme. These programs aim to strengthen ties with Nigerian expatriates and facilitate their involvement in national development.
Dabiri-Erewa also engaged in discussions with influential figures such as Gina Paige, CEO of African Ancestry, anthropologist and filmmaker Sheila Walker, and the Sultan King of Bamoun, Mouhammad-Nabil Mforifoum Mbombo Njoya from Cameroon. These interactions highlighted the importance of international collaboration to leverage the global African diaspora for economic and social advancement.
The event, themed “The Rise of Global Africa: Forging a New U.S. Economic Partnership with Africa and the Caribbean,” gathered U.S. lawmakers, African leaders, and business executives. Together, they explored ways to enhance economic and political ties between Africa, the Caribbean, and the U.S., with the African diaspora playing a pivotal role in this transformation.
Dabiri-Erewa reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to deepening its engagement with the diaspora community, fostering partnerships that contribute to global economic growth and strengthen Nigeria’s position on the world stage.
