Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has said that Nigerians in the Diaspora remitted over $99 billion back home over the past five years.
Dabiri-Erewa made this known at the ongoing 2024 National Diaspora Day on Thursday in Abuja.
She highlighted the immense contribution of the diaspora community to national development, noting that the financial influx underscored their significant role in Nigeria’s economy.
“According to recent World Bank statistics, this $99 billion remittance is both remarkable and commendable”, she stated.
The event also addressed the growing “Japa” phenomenon—the mass migration of Nigerians seeking better opportunities abroad—and its impact on national development.
Dabiri-Erewa acknowledged the trend’s drivers, including economic hardship, security concerns, and limited opportunities, which have led to a significant brain drain.
“We have observed the ‘Japa’ trend from multiple angles.
“While some view it as an escape from frustration, others see it as a path to personal growth. However, it comes with challenges such as disconnection from roots, mental health issues, and the risk of false promises abroad”, Dabiri-Erewa said.
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She emphasized the need for alternative approaches to address Nigeria’s challenges, such as supporting entrepreneurship, advocating for accountability, and leveraging diaspora engagement.
“We must shift our mindset to foster progress and hope within the country,” she added.
Dabiri-Erewa also highlighted the Commission’s ongoing challenge of inadequate funding and urged the National Assembly to address this issue.
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“This year’s National Diaspora Day, with the theme; ‘Japa Phenomena and its Implications for National Development’, served as a crucial platform for discussing these matters and exploring ways to utilize Nigeria’s human capital for national advancement”, she noted.
