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By Chukwuma Umerah
In a concerted effort to bolster investment opportunities and stimulate the nation’s economic growth, a call to action was made at the 10th Nigeria Diaspora Direct Investment Summit (NDDIS) in London encouraging Nigerians across the globe to establish businesses in their home country.
The summit, themed “Renew Nigeria; The Nigerian Investment Challenge ‘23”, saw the participation of key figures, including Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ishola Sarafa, among other key stakeholders.
The overarching message conveyed to Nigerians residing abroad was to explore investment prospects within Nigeria actively. The focus was on creating credible businesses that could contribute significantly to the nation’s financial resources and overall economic prosperity.
Sarafa reassured potential investors that the government of Nigeria is working on policies and measures to enhance the viability of investments. He addressed concerns about security, emphasising that issues highlighted in the media predominantly affected remote areas.
“The insecurity being broadcasted in the media happens mostly in remote areas. I advise potential investors to ignore such reports in the media but to approach the Nigeria High Commission for direction and advice so as to make informed decisions,” he said.
Chairman of NIDCOM, Abike Dabiri, on her part stressed the importance of not approaching investments blindly but instead consulting with government institutions for guidance. She encouraged reaching out to the Diaspora Commission for inquiries and support and pledged full cooperation to investors.
Pointing out some of the measures already in place to ensure a smooth business environment, the Head of the Nigerian Civil Services, Folashade Yemi Esan, highlighted the modernization of the civil service through a computerized system, which allows investors to interact with any department online for swift and efficient service. “Investors inquiries and applications would be promptly processed online,” she assured.
The 10th NDDIS was deemed a resounding success, leaving potential investors well-informed and confident about venturing into Nigeria’s business landscape known for its abundant resources and extensive business potential, offering entrepreneurs the opportunity to earn significant revenue and create successful ventures that can elevate the quality of life for Nigerians.
Among the notable figures in attendance was Senior Trade Adviser on Africa in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Tim Morris, the Administrator/CEO of the Public Service Institute of Nigeria, Abdul-Ganiyu Obatoyinbo, along with other Director’ General and delegates from key government agencies in Nigeria.
