The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has urged stronger collaboration between state governments and Nigerians in the diaspora. This partnership aims to drive sustainable development and inclusive growth.
The call came during the 8th Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS) in Abuja. The summit, themed “Fast-Tracking Regional and National Development by Mobilising Diaspora Investment,” gathered government officials, investors, entrepreneurs, and development partners. Together, they explored ways to turn diaspora capital into economic progress.
State Governments as Investment Partners
NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, highlighted the vital role of sub-national governments in delivering grassroots impact.
“For investment to truly deliver development, it must be felt at the grassroots, where the majority of our people live and work. The sub-nationals are not just locations for investment; we are partners and facilitators of it,” Abdulrazaq said.
Represented by NGF Director-General Eghosa M. Omoigui, he explained that states are improving infrastructure, updating regulations, and supporting private sector growth. Additionally, Abdulrazaq announced NGF Investopedia, a platform providing diaspora investors with state-specific data on opportunities, incentives, and advantages.
“This platform will serve as a credible guide for diaspora investors to make informed decisions,” he said. Therefore, the initiative is expected to make Nigeria’s sub-national states more attractive for investment.
Summit Vision and Diaspora Role
Dr Badewa T. Adejugbe-Williams, Chairman of the Nigeria Diaspora Summit Initiative (NDSI), described the summit as a product of vision, collaboration, and persistence.
“What began as a bold idea to connect Nigeria with her global diaspora has evolved into one of the most influential platforms for diaspora engagement and investment facilitation in our nation’s history,” she said. Moreover, she noted that the summit arrives at a time when Africa—and Nigeria in particular—is gaining recognition as a hub for innovation, creativity, and enterprise.
“The NDIS stands as a beacon of what is possible when we harness the talents, resources, and commitment of Nigerians both at home and abroad,” she added. In addition, she encouraged participants to “engage deeply, connect widely, and think boldly,” stressing that the diaspora represents not just remittances but “a force for renewal, innovation, and nation-building.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the NGF emphasised the value of diaspora collaboration. Consequently, initiatives like NDIS and NGF Investopedia will channel diaspora funds into measurable, grassroots development. Furthermore, simplified policies and procedures will make investment easier and more transparent.
