The Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) has called for closer collaboration between Nigerians in the diaspora and state governments to drive sustainable national development and inclusive economic growth.
The call was made during the inauguration of the eighth Nigerian Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS) in Abuja, with the theme “Accelerating regional and national development by mobilizing diaspora investment.” The summit brought together senior government officials, investors, entrepreneurs and development partners committed to unlocking the potential of Nigerian diaspora capital for economic transformation.
In a goodwill message, the NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, emphasized that sub-national governments play a critical role in translating diaspora capital into measurable impact at the grassroots.
“For investment to truly generate development, it must be felt at the grassroots, where most of our people live and work. Subnational entities are not just places for investment; we are partners and facilitators of it,” Abdulrazaq said.
Represented by the Director General of the NGF, Mr. Eghosa M. Omoigui, the governor highlighted the ongoing efforts of states to strengthen regulatory frameworks, improve infrastructure and foster partnerships that promote private sector growth.
Announced the launch of NGF Investopedia, a new investment intelligence platform designed to provide diaspora investors with reliable state-by-state data on sectoral opportunities, policy incentives and comparative advantages across all 36 states.
“This platform will serve as a credible guide for diaspora investors to make informed decisions,” Abdulrazaq said, adding that the NGF is working to harmonize policies, reduce bureaucracy and simplify procedures for land acquisition, taxes and business registration.
“We want to make Nigerian subnationals the most attractive destinations for investment,” he said.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Badewa T. Adejugbe-Williams, President of the Nigerian Diaspora Summit Initiative (NDSI), described the Summit as a product of vision, collaboration and perseverance.
“What started as a bold idea to connect Nigeria with its global diaspora has evolved into one of the most influential platforms for diaspora engagement and investment facilitation in the history of our nation,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to government agencies, investors, entrepreneurs and partners for their continued support, describing them as key drivers of the Summit’s growing impact.
“This year’s edition comes at a time when the world is looking at Africa, and Nigeria in particular, as a destination for innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship,” said Dr. Adejugbe-Williams.
“The NDIS is a model of what is possible when we harness the talents, resources and commitment of Nigerians both at home and abroad.”
He urged participants to “engage deeply, connect widely and think boldly,” emphasizing that the Nigerian diaspora represents not only remittance flows but “a force for renewal, innovation and nation-building.”
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