Adedokun Waliyu 
President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians living abroad to move beyond sending money home and begin making productive investments that can contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.
Tinubu made the call while declaring open the three-day Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference (NIDEC) 2026 at the Apollo Convention Centre in Toronto, Canada. He was represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.
The President described Nigerians in the diaspora as proof that the Nigerian spirit can compete successfully on the global stage, stressing that Nigeria needs their expertise, capital and experience.
Tinubu said Nigeria’s economic indicators point to a country undergoing genuine recovery. He cited real GDP growth of 3.89 per cent in the first quarter of 2026, manufacturing growth of 3.29 per cent, inflation easing to 15.91 per cent and foreign reserves closing 2025 at $45.4 billion.
He also noted that the International Monetary Fund had projected Nigeria’s economy to grow by 4.1 per cent in 2026, while the World Bank had acknowledged progress in restoring macroeconomic stability and strengthening the country’s external and fiscal position.
The President highlighted government investments in roads, railways, ports, electricity, digital connectivity, healthcare, housing and agricultural value chains. He also said the Bank of Industry recorded its highest annual financing volume in 2025, disbursing ₦636 billion to businesses across the country.
Tinubu said remittances from Nigerians abroad remain important in supporting families with school fees, medical expenses and small businesses, but urged the diaspora to make investment a larger part of their engagement with Nigeria.
He encouraged Nigerians abroad to invest in sectors including agro-processing, healthcare, technology, energy, housing, logistics, mining, education, creative industries and export manufacturing.
The President also called for the creation of professionally governed investment clubs, sector funds, co-investment vehicles and venture networks. He urged diaspora investors to pool capital, demand audited accounts, insist on proper governance and conduct due diligence with credible professional advisers.
Tinubu said the government has a responsibility to provide predictable policies, transparent investment opportunities, efficient consular services and stronger protection against fraud.
He also highlighted initiatives such as the Non-Resident Nigerian Ordinary Account, Non-Resident Nigerian Investment Account and Non-Resident Bank Verification Number as measures aimed at making it easier for Nigerians abroad to participate in the country’s financial system.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the President appealed for unity, stressing that political competition is part of democracy but should not be allowed to threaten Nigeria’s stability.
Chairman and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said the conference provides an opportunity to deepen engagement with Nigerians abroad by harnessing their expertise and resources for national development.
Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo commended the Federal Government’s economic reforms, while Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal said the conference could help his state attract new investment opportunities.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Olajumoke Oduwole, also urged investors to move from discussions to actual investments, stressing that the time to invest is now.
