The Tinubu administration has reiterated a firm commitment to fast-tracking Nigeria’s regional and national development through strategic mobilisation of Diaspora investment, robust support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and accelerated infrastructure projects.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who delivered his keynote address at the 8th Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS) 2025, emphasised the synergy between government policies and Diaspora contributions as central to Nigeria’s growth trajectory.
He underscored the vital role of the Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit as a platform to attract investments and create jobs. “This platform aligns perfectly with our administration’s objectives, which are to attract investment, create jobs, develop infrastructure, and human capital,” Shettima said, highlighting how Diaspora investments have helped mobilise resources into MSMEs, the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.
Noting the evolution of the summit over eight years, Shettima praised the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) led by Abike Dabiri-Erewa and the Nigeria Diaspora Summit Initiative for their unwavering dedication. “What began eight years ago as a modest effort has blossomed into a wildfire of enterprise and progress,” he remarked.
On this year’s theme, “Fast-Tracking Regional and National Development by Mobilising Diaspora Investment,” the Vice President confirmed that the Tinubu Administration sees the Diaspora as a “central pillar” of the Renewed Hope Agenda. “Nigeria’s prosperity will come faster when the public sector, private sector, and our global diaspora work together in unity of purpose,” he said.
Among targeted interventions reflecting this commitment is the Home and Abroad Housing Platform created by NiDCOM, which provides Nigerians abroad a trusted gateway to invest in real estate in Nigeria. Shettima elaborated on a partnership with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) to connect Diaspora scientists and innovators with opportunities at home.
On financial empowerment, Shettima disclosed plans for a Diaspora Bond to facilitate direct investment from Nigerians abroad into national infrastructure projects. “Reforms like the Non-Resident BVN and a competitive exchange rate have encouraged formal remittances, which reached about $21 billion in 2024,” he noted.
The Vice President stressed that President Tinubu personally ensures direct engagement with Diaspora organizations across continents, describing these interactions not as symbolic but as strategic dialogues for policy formulation.
Highlighting the critical role of MSMEs, Shettima observed that Nigeria has over 39 million MSMEs, contributing over 50% of the GDP and employing 86% of the workforce, but still facing challenges notably in access to finance. “My Administration has taken decisive steps such as the ₦75 billion MSME Intervention Fund, the FGN-ALAT Digital Skillnovation Program, the National MSME Clinics, and awarding non-repayable grants to outstanding MSMEs,” he said.
Infrastructure remains a top priority, evidenced by historic investments: “We have approved ₦4.2 trillion for road and bridge projects, including transformative corridors like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Lagos-Ibadan Expressway; ₦1.3 trillion to settle legacy debts and expand rural solar mini-grids; and we have laid over 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable to empower our digital economy,” Shettima affirmed.
“These projects are not mere promises; they are proof that Nigeria is moving forward,” he said, while calling for synergy between infrastructure, MSMEs, and Diaspora investment to unleash unstoppable progress.
Shettima made a heartfelt appeal to Diaspora Nigerians to engage economically in Nigeria’s development. “Come home, not only physically, but economically. Invest in our roads, our startups, and our people. Your expertise and resources are vital and indispensable,” he said.
Addressing MSMEs, the Vice President charged them to seize the opportunities created by the government’s supportive systems, confident that the federal government will provide leadership and a stable environment, including security of lives, property, and investment.
He charged the summit to be a launchpad for bold action. “To our Diaspora investors, turn your vision into value. To our business pitchers, move with courage, fueled by your dreams and convictions. Be fearless. Nigeria is ready for innovation, and this government stands ready to partner with you,” he declared.
