As Nigerians in Diaspora Commission took its Sensitisation and Advocacy Programme to promote diaspora investment across Nigeria to the South East, Enugu State hosted the first edition in the zone with the immediate creation of Diaspora Desks in all the Local Government Areas.
The state stated at the flag off of the programme that it is crucial for the Nigerian Diaspora to drive economic growth and development.
Governor Peter Mbah, represented by Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, 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 State is committed to increasing its GDP from $4.4 billion to $30 billion by creating an investor-friendly environment.
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In her opening address, Hon. Dr. 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 homewards, particularly, in their states.
Dabiri-Erewa highlighted NiDCOM’s ongoing programmes, including the Nigerian Diaspora Day, Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit, and Badagry Door of Return Festival, among others, as its avenues to maintain effective diaspora engagement.
She commended Dr. Mbah for his hospitality and leadership in improving the socio-economic status of Enugu State citizens.
Olangwa Ezekwu, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Diaspora Matters, informed that remittances recorded by the International Monetary Fund reached $4.22 billion between January and October 2024, with over N60 billion sent home during December.
Ezekwu stressed the need for the South East to channel resources effectively, particularly as more people look to invest at home.
The programme, which attracted participants both physically and virtually, marked a significant milestone in unlocking the economic potential of diaspora contributions to the South East and Nigeria at large, which will bring a collaborative pathway to national prosperity.
It will be recalled that a similar summit took place in Lagos for the South West zone on Tuesday, where stakeholders took part in the exercise.
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