- Tinubu urged Nigerians abroad to invest more in Nigeria
- He said remittances should go beyond supporting families
- The President highlighted sectors where diaspora capital can boost growth
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians living abroad to deepen their economic involvement in the country by investing in businesses and productive sectors rather than limiting their contribution to sending money to relatives.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the President made the call while declaring open the three-day Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference (NIDEC) 2026 at the Apollo Convention Centre in Toronto, Canada. He was represented at the event by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.
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The conference, organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) under the leadership of Chairman/CEO Abike Dabiri-Erewa, was held with the theme, “Thrive Abroad, Invest in Nigeria.”
Tinubu described Nigerians in the diaspora as evidence of the ability of Nigerians to excel globally, urging them to use their financial strength and professional experience to contribute more directly to the country’s economic development.
He said the growing economic influence of Nigerians abroad could also strengthen their voice in national affairs, including future discussions around diaspora voting.
According to the President, Nigeria recognises the importance of its citizens abroad and remains committed to creating an environment where they can participate meaningfully in the economy.
Tinubu pointed to recent economic indicators as evidence that the country was making progress. He cited real Gross Domestic Product growth of 3.89 per cent in the first quarter of 2026, manufacturing growth of 3.29 per cent, a decline in inflation to 15.91 per cent and foreign reserves of $45.4 billion at the end of 2025.
He also noted that the International Monetary Fund had projected Nigeria’s economy to expand by 4.1 per cent in 2026, while the World Bank had recognised improvements in the country’s macroeconomic stability and external and fiscal position.
The President highlighted other government initiatives, including a new tax framework aimed at simplifying compliance and reducing pressure on low-income earners and small businesses.
He also disclosed that the Bank of Industry recorded its highest annual financing level in 2025, providing N636 billion in funding to businesses across the country.
Tinubu said the Federal Government was also expanding investment in infrastructure and productive sectors, including roads, railways, ports, electricity, digital connectivity, healthcare, housing and agriculture.
He acknowledged the significant role of diaspora remittances in supporting Nigerian families through education, healthcare and small businesses. However, he argued that remittances should serve as the starting point for diaspora participation in Nigeria’s economy rather than its limit.
The President encouraged Nigerians abroad to invest in areas such as agro-processing, healthcare, technology, energy, housing, logistics, mining, education, creative industries and export-oriented manufacturing.
He further advised diaspora investors to move away from informal and personality-driven investments and establish professionally managed investment clubs, sector-specific funds, co-investment platforms and venture networks.
Such arrangements, he said, should be supported by proper due diligence, audited financial statements, transparent governance and professional advisers.
Tinubu also said the government had a responsibility to provide Nigerians abroad with predictable policies, transparent investment opportunities, efficient consular services and stronger protection against fraud.
He cited the Non-Resident Nigerian Ordinary Account, Non-Resident Nigerian Investment Account and Non-Resident Bank Verification Number as measures designed to make it easier for Nigerians abroad to participate in the domestic financial system.
While acknowledging the challenges Nigerians face in foreign countries, Tinubu urged them to consider creating opportunities at home through investment and entrepreneurship.
He also appealed for unity as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, stressing that political competition should not be allowed to undermine the country’s stability.
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