Diaspora remittances exceed $90bn in five years, says Dabiri-Erewa

…December remittance stood at N60bn

Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), has disclosed that remittances from Nigerians abroad over the past five years have exceeded $90 billion.

Dabiri-erewa said this during the 2024 budget performance and 2025 budget defence before the National Assembly’s Joint Committee on Diaspora. She also revealed that Nigerians living overseas spent approximately ₦60 billion during their visits to the country in December 2024.

Describing the expenditure as a testament to the diaspora’s increasing impact on Nigeria’s economy, the NIDCOM chair applauded their contributions, particularly their growing interest in nation-building and investments.

Highlighting the Commission’s achievements, she remarked:
“In the last five years, we have demonstrated that the diaspora community is a formidable force and resource that cannot be ignored. They are the number one ambassadors of our country, helping to reshape Nigeria’s global narrative. All over the world, everyone now wants to have a Nigerian as a friend.”

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With an estimated 17 million Nigerians living abroad, she noted that diaspora remittances have significantly boosted the economy. The ₦60 billion spent during the December influx, she added, represents only the tip of the iceberg regarding their economic influence.

She attributed the large influx of diaspora Nigerians in December 2024 to years of consistent interaction and engagement with the diaspora community.

The NIDCOM boss announced plans to establish a Diaspora Plaza, a dedicated hub where Nigerians abroad can connect, engage with government officials, and explore opportunities within the country.

“I hosted many of them in December—my house turned into a hosting venue,” she said. “I was particularly impressed by young Nigerians eager to invest in their communities. Many are already supporting local businesses and initiating digital technology training programmes for young people”, she explained.

Dabiri-Erewa emphasised the need to document the diaspora’s contributions more comprehensively, adding:
“What we haven’t done yet, but will accomplish this year, is to compile these contributions in a formal document so that we can truly appreciate the impact of our diaspora.”

She said the Commission is also exploring innovative funding strategies to enhance its capacity, working closely with the National Assembly Committee on Diaspora to achieve this goal.