National Assembly rejects diaspora voting as remittances hits $90 in five years

The National Assembly has declared Nigeria unprepared for diaspora voting, even as remittances from Nigerians living abroad exceeded $90 billion in the past five years.
Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, revealed that Nigerians visiting the country in December 2024 alone spent approximately ₦60 billion, underscoring the economic impact of the diaspora community.
She made this disclosure during a budget defense session before the National Assembly Joint Committee on Diaspora on Thursday.
Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the growing influence of the diaspora on Nigeria’s economy, praising their contributions to nation-building and investment in local businesses. She also proposed the establishment of a Diaspora Plaza to serve as a hub for engagement and opportunities for Nigerians abroad.
“Remittances alone in the last five years have been over $90 billion. This December, they spent no less than ₦60 billion visiting Nigeria. This shows the diaspora is a powerful force we cannot ignore,” she stated.
Senator Victor Umeh, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora, expressed concerns over implementing diaspora voting without reliable data and systems. He urged the country to first address electoral challenges at home.
“We must get properly organised before we open up to people voting from outside Nigeria. Reliable data and enabling systems are critical to ensuring credibility,” Umeh said.
The Diaspora Voting Right Bill, co-sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Rep. Sadiq Abdullahi, passed its second reading in July 2024 but is awaiting a public hearing. The bill seeks to amend the Electoral Act, 2022, to allow Nigerians abroad to vote in future elections.
Umeh assured support for increased funding for NIDCOM to enhance its engagement with the diaspora and strengthen its operations.
“NIDCOM has operated under difficult circumstances due to poor funding. We will advocate for better budgetary provisions to enable them to continue engaging the diaspora effectively,” he added.
The diaspora community, estimated at 17 million, continues to play a significant role in the Nigerian economy through remittances, investments, and cultural exchange.
Credit: The Guardian