The Federal Government has made an impassioned appeal to Nigerians living abroad, urging them to return home and contribute to the nation’s development. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), issued the heartfelt call during an event in Ado-Ekiti on Saturday, October 19. Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the crucial role that Nigerians in the diaspora can play in addressing the country’s socio-economic challenges and driving national progress.
During her address, Dabiri-Erewa stressed the importance of collaboration between Nigerians both at home and abroad. “We need to engage with our diaspora to leverage their skills, knowledge, and resources,” she said, underlining that the participation of the diaspora is essential for moving Nigeria forward. She added that the experiences and expertise that Nigerians abroad have gained in their respective countries could be pivotal in tackling the challenges facing Nigeria.
The NIDCOM chairwoman also highlighted the vast opportunities that exist within Nigeria, encouraging the diaspora to explore avenues for investment and involvement. “No foreigner will leave his country and help develop another,” she said. “It is the responsibility of Nigerians to come back and help build their own nation.” Dabiri-Erewa’s statement reflected a sense of urgency, stressing that Nigeria’s future lies in the hands of its citizens, both at home and abroad.
In her remarks, Dabiri-Erewa pointed to the potential for economic growth and development that returning Nigerians could bring. She acknowledged the significant contributions of the diaspora to their host countries but urged that the same energy and skills be applied to help address Nigeria’s developmental challenges. “You have skills, knowledge, and experiences that can make a real difference,” she told the audience, adding that the country’s progress depends on collective efforts.
Dabiri-Erewa’s appeal came at a time when Nigeria is facing a number of socio-economic issues, including unemployment, infrastructure deficits, and a growing need for innovation in various sectors. She emphasized that the return of skilled Nigerians could help tackle these issues head-on, bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to critical areas like healthcare, education, and technology.
The NIDCOM chairman also called for greater engagement and collaboration between the government and the diaspora community. “We must create an environment that encourages our diaspora to invest and participate in national development,” she said. She also spoke of the importance of policies that attract and support returning citizens, ensuring they can contribute effectively to the country’s growth.
As the event concluded, Dabiri-Erewa reiterated her appeal to Nigerians abroad, urging them to consider returning home and investing in the future of their country. “The time to come back and help build Nigeria is now,” she declared, emphasizing that the nation’s prosperity will depend on the collective efforts of all Nigerians, wherever they may be.
