- NiDCOM Chairman lauds governor’s investment in infrastructure, security
Enugu State Governor Dr Peter Mbah has urged Nigerians in the diaspora to consider Enugu as their preferred investment destination. He emphasised that his administration has implemented mechanisms to facilitate the investment process and ensure high returns on investment.
This was echoed by the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), MrsAbikeDabiri-Erewa, who commended the governor’s dedication to improving infrastructure and security, noting the vast investment opportunities available to diaspora investors.
Governor Mbah made the call on Wednesday in Enugu during a sensitisation and advocacy workshop organised by NiDCOM in collaboration with the Enugu State Government to promote diaspora investment in Southeast Nigeria.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the diaspora community, highlighting policies such as easy access to land, guaranteed returns, transparency, and a secure environment, all of which position the state as business-friendly.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof ChidiebereOnyia, Mbah acknowledged the significant role Nigerians in the diaspora play in national development through remittances, expertise, innovation, and networks.
“With an estimated $20 billion to $25 billion sent home annually by Nigerians abroad, according to the World Bank, the diaspora community cannot be overlooked. Effectively harnessing their support and influence is critical for enhancing investment, trade, and robust representation in host countries,” the governor stated.
Mbah encouraged diaspora investors to explore untapped opportunities in the Southeast, calling on Igbo investors abroad to embrace homecoming investments.
“The Southeast is renowned for its entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community development. The large Igbo diaspora presents tremendous opportunities for mutual growth across the five Southeast states. This workshop should inspire Ndigbo in the diaspora to invest financially and socially, fostering sustainable development in the region,” he said.
He also noted that the state government recognises the Igbo diaspora as key stakeholders in its development agenda, aimed at increasing the state’s GDP from $4.4 billion to $30 billion. Investment from the diaspora would complement the administration’s efforts towards inclusive economic growth and improving citizens’ quality of life.
Mbah highlighted key initiatives of interest to the diaspora, including the Enugu State Electricity Market, the New Enugu Smart City, Special Agro-Processing Zones, a newly completed ICT centre, and Enugu Transport Infrastructure Projects, alongside opportunities in agriculture, technology, education, energy, and mineral resources.
Speaking earlier, MrsAbikeDabiri-Erewa called on diasporans to invest in Nigeria’s abundant resources and opportunities, noting that many successful diasporans hail from Enugu State.
“There is no better place to invest than one’s home. The Southeast offers opportunities for high returns on investment,” she said, advocating for the establishment of a diaspora fund to identify and develop specific investment areas.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Diaspora Matters, MrsOlangwaEzekwu, highlighted the state’s ease of doing business model, which has attracted partnerships across various sectors, including education, security, agriculture, tourism, health, and ICT.
“This is a call to action. I invite you to join this journey and be part of the effort to move the Southeast forward. Do not give up your seat at the table,” she concluded.
