From Tony Osauzo, Benin
The Governor Monday Okpebholo’s led administration, yesterday, announced its commitment to formalising $7 billion annual remittances from its global Diaspora into a visionary and transformative policy framework implemented by the Edo State Diaspora Agency, to usher in a new era of engagement and empowerment for the state’s global Diaspora.
The governor’s Press Secretary, Fred Itua, in a statement, said the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to strengthening ties with Edo indigenes worldwide by prioritising their welfare, optimising Diaspora remittances for structured economic growth, and projecting a positive, unified image of Edo State on the international stage.
“At the heart of this bold policy thrust is a deep recognition that the welfare of every Edo person abroad is paramount.
Moving beyond mere financial transactions, the administration acknowledges the multifaceted challenges facing Diaspora members, particularly the mental health struggles encountered by irregular migrants who have endured dangerous and traumatic journeys.
“Governor Okpebholo’s government is determined to provide not only economic support but, also, compassionate assistance that affirms the value of every Edo life. This approach represents a fundamental shift from viewing the Diaspora solely as sources of remittance to recognising them as vital stakeholders whose well-being is essential to the state’s holistic progress.
“Furthermore, the administration seeks to unlock the immense economic potential embedded in Diaspora remittances, which have historically been a crucial lifeline for Edo families and the state economy. Recent data reveals that Edo State alone contributes a remarkable $7 billion annually, accounting for nearly one-third of Nigeria’s total Diaspora remittances.
“Recognising this, Governor Okpebholo’s government is committed to formalising these financial flows through innovative mechanisms that encourage security, transparency, and investment readiness”, the statement added.
It explained that by creating a safer and more enabling environment through robust infrastructural development, security reforms, and responsive governance, the state aims to convert informal personal remittances into strategic investments that will fuel sustainable economic transformation across sectors.
Besides, it said the administration is dedicated to reshaping and amplifying Edo State’s narrative on the global stage, adding that across the Diaspora, Edo people continue to excel in diverse fields, contributing significantly to their host communities and maintaining a strong connection to their roots.
“The government’s approach involves leveraging existing Edo associations and educational alumni networks worldwide, empowering passionate individuals as official liaisons who maintain an active, two-way communication channel with the agency.
“These efforts are complemented by the development of a cutting-edge online portal, where Edo indigenes can register and receive unique identifiers that validate their community membership. This platform not only enhances Diaspora business visibility, but also unlocks special incentives such as money transfer rebates and potential tax breaks for returning residents, thus reinforcing a sense of belonging and encouraging greater economic participation.
“A central feature of the policy is the emphasis on community-driven development, where local Edo communities identify their most urgent needs, and the Diaspora is mobilised to support targeted projects. This approach will foster a collaborative model of development that will bridge geographic divides and unite Edo people in shared purpose.
“The administration also confronts the critical issue of irregular migration with a comprehensive, evidence-based strategy. Recognising that migration challenges are often rooted in misinformation and exploitation, the agency, under the leadership of Dr. Loretta Ogboro-Oko, plans to partner with broadcast media outlets to produce the ‘Echoes from the Diaspora’ series.
“This programme will candidly showcase the harsh realities faced by irregular migrants, dispelling myths about easy financial gain abroad, and, thereby, protecting vulnerable youth from risky journeys. Moreover, targeted outreach to universities and secondary schools aims to equip young Edo indigenes with accurate data and alternatives to dangerous migration paths, addressing the root causes through education and empowerment”, the statement further explained.
It emphasised that Governor Okpebholo’s vision for the Edo State Diaspora Agency is not merely an administrative initiative, but a transformative movement designed to reposition Diaspora remittances from fragmented, informal support into a well-structured investment engine that drives Edo’s socio-economic development, pointing out that the vision is anchored in inclusivity, transparency, and long-term sustainability: values that will ensure the institution endures beyond current generations and becomes a permanent pillar of Edo’s growth trajectory.
The government, therefore, called on all Edo indigenes worldwide to actively engage with the historic initiative and partner in the shared mission to build a prosperous, secure, and globally respected Edo State.