Enugu creates diaspora desks as NiDCOM holds diaspora investment summit in South-east

As Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) took its sensitisation and advocacy programme to promote diaspora investment across Nigeria, to the South East, Enugu State has hosted the first edition in the zone with immediate creation of Diaspora Desks in all the local government areas.

The State Government stated this during the flag off of the programme that it was crucial for the Nigerian Diaspora in driving economic growth and development.

Peter Mbah, governor of the state, represented by Chidiebere Onyia, secretary to the State Government, in his welcome address, noted the significant contributions of the diaspora through remittances, expertise, and innovation.

Mbah stressed the importance of harnessing these resources for mutual benefit, adding that Enugu is committed to increasing its GDP from $4.4 billion to $30 billion by creating an investor-friendly environment.

In her opening address, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, chairman/CEO, NiDCOM, emphasised the need to decentralise diaspora engagement, which will motivate Nigerians in the diaspora, known for their global achievement, to head homewards, particularly, in their states.

Dabiri-Erewa highlighted NiDCOM’s ongoing programmes, including the Nigerian Diaspora Day (NDD), Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS) and the Badagry Door of Return Festival, among others, as its avenues to maintain effective diaspora engagement.

She commended Governor Mbah for his hospitality and leadership in improving the socio-economic status of Enugu citizens.

Olangwa Ezekwu, special adviser to the Governor on Diaspora Matters, in her remarks said that remittances recorded by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reached $4.22 billion between January and October 2024; with over ₦60 billion sent home during December.

She stressed the need for the South-East to channel resources effectively, particularly as more people look to invest at home.

The programme, which was well-attended both physically and virtually, marked a significant milestone in unlocking the economic potential of diaspora contributions to the South-East and Nigeria in general, which will bring a collaborative pathway to national prosperity.

Recall that a similar summit took place in Lagos for South West zone recently which attracted many stakeholders.