Diaspora Investment Summit: U.S. Advisor, NiDCOM Unite to Drive Economic Growth in Nigeria

White House Advisor On Diaspora Engagement Boosts 7th Ndis, Pledges Partnership With Nidcom

Ms. Deniece Laurent-Mantey, Executive Director of the U.S. Presidential Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement (PAC-ADE), has retirated her organization’s commitment to advancing diaspora investment opportunities.

Ms. Laurent-Mantey stated this at the Plenary Presentation at the 7th Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit in Abuja.

She emphasized that PAC-ADE aims to create pathways for Nigerians in the U.S. to engage in pooled investments, supporting local entrepreneurs and small-to-medium-sized enterprises in Nigeria.

This mission, she explained, goes beyond traditional remittances, focusing instead on fostering stability and economic growth through larger, collaborative development projects.

“Our efforts are designed to bridge communities, open doors for impactful investment, and strengthen the influence of the African diaspora,” Ms. Laurent-Mantey stated, while expressing her appreciation for the support of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) under the leadership of Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

She further affirmed PAC-ADE’s dedication to establishing sustainable platforms and partnerships that amplify the diaspora’s positive impact in Nigeria. “PAC-ADE is laying the groundwork for a stronger, more resilient Nigeria,” she said.

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, expressed her gratitude for Ms. Laurent-Mantey’s dedication to diaspora engagement, noting her commitment to Africa’s future.

“We cannot thank you enough for your vision, dedication, and leadership within the African diaspora. Together, we’re working toward a future that Africa truly deserves,” said Dabiri-Erewa.

Dabiri-Erewa highlighted the importance of collective action among diaspora communities, a principle that aligns with PAC-ADE’s mission. She shared her vision for a Diaspora Investment Fund, encouraging members of the diaspora to engage in collaborative investments to drive impactful change.

“Imagine if 1,000 diasporans each contribute $100—these pooled resources could make a tremendous impact in Nigeria,” she said.

Reflecting on the summit’s success, Dabiri-Erewa affirmed NiDCOM’s commitment to fostering partnerships that leverage the diaspora’s resources and expertise for Nigeria’s growth. “We’re thrilled with the initiatives of the American African Diaspora Council, and we look forward to working closely with them and the U.S. government. Together, we can build a resilient Nigeria with the help of Nigerians both at home and abroad.”

Hon. Dabiri-Erewa also recognized the contributions of notable diaspora leaders, including Mr. Christopher Brooks, whose efforts in supporting small businesses and promoting investment opportunities have driven economic progress in Nigeria.

The 7th NDIS, themed “Adapting Stability Through Diaspora Investment: Navigating the Path to Prosperity,” ran for three days, highlighting the potential of diaspora-led investments to transform Nigeria’s economic landscape.