Shettima praises Nigerian Diaspora’s role in global economy
-Says Nigerian immigrants account for highest diaspora remittances in West Africa
Kunle Sanni
Vice President Kashim Shettima has commended the significant contributions of Nigerian immigrants to the global economy, noting that the country accounts for the highest diaspora remittances in West Africa.
Speaking at the 10th Annual National Migration Dialogue in Abuja, the Vice President highlighted how Nigerians abroad excel across various sectors, while also addressing the challenges of irregular migration.
He said, “Migration is not just a crossover from one geography to another. It is a critical driver of global and national development. In 2022 alone, Nigeria accounted for $21.9 billion in diaspora remittances, representing 64% of all remittances in West Africa. This is a testament to the invaluable economic contributions of Nigerian migrants.
“Beyond financial remittances, our migrants have become global ambassadors, excelling in fields such as technology, medicine, sports, and the creative arts. Nigerian startups founded by migrants attracted over $800 million in investments in 2022, underscoring the transformative potential of our people across the globe.”
Shettima observed that while the Annual National Migration Dialogue coincides with the commemoration of International Migrants Day, the theme of the dialogue sparks solemn “reflection on the dual essence of migration—its remarkable contributions to society and the enduring need to safeguard the rights of those who undertake these journeys.”
Noting that Nigeria is both a country of origin and a destination for migrants, with over 1.3 million international migrants living within, he however, cautioned against the constant challenges of irregular migration, even as he regretted that the nation returned about 10,000 of its citizens detained for sundry migration offences in 2024 alone.
“Our government’s response has been multi-faceted, involving several agencies and robust partnerships. The National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), under the capable leadership of Honourable Federal Commissioner Tijani Aliyu Ahmed, continues to lead Nigeria’s migration coordination efforts.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Federal Commissioner of NCFRMI, Ahmed, said the dialogue has provided an invaluable space to reflect on the migration conversation, progress and formulating policies to address their challenges.
Also, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said the Nigerian diaspora represents the very best of the world- hard-working, brilliant, intelligent and developing world economies.
On his part, Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), Professor Muhammed Tawfiq Ladan, in a keynote address, noted that migrants, by whatever classification, are human beings entitled to fundamental human rights.
