Diaspora Driving Nigeria’s Growth Beyond Remittances- Expert

Omolabake Fasogbon

Policy makers in the country have been advised to tap into full spectrum of diaspora potential beyond remittances alone.

A UK-based Nigerian international digital policy and communications practitioner, Olaide Arogundade-Abdulkabir, argued that diaspora’s human capital, cultural influence, and intellectual resources remain crucial to driving national progress.

Arogundade-Abdulkabir in a recent study, titled: ‘Nigeria’s Diaspora: Beyond Financial Contributions’, called for a paradigm shift in how the country engages its citizens abroad. 

“Living abroad exposes Nigerians to functioning systems, transformative innovations, and global networks. These experiences build resilience and strategic thinking—skills that are critical for governance, policymaking, and public service,” she said. 

She warned that reducing diaspora contributions to financial inflows alone risks sidelining a powerful force for national development. She  thus advocated for a structured inclusion of diaspora professionals in shaping Nigeria’s growth agenda.

“If Nigeria is genuinely committed to harnessing this potential, the path forward is clear: Establish advisory roles for diaspora representatives within government, involve us in policy design, and support diaspora-led initiatives that uplift communities at home.”

Her call came amid growing recognition of the diaspora’s role in reshaping Nigeria’s global image. 

“From Afrobeat concerts in Berlin to Nollywood screenings in New York, cultural exports have become tools of soft power, challenging outdated stereotypes and fostering international goodwill. Our influence extends far beyond boardrooms and parliaments. Every plate of Jollof shared in London or Ewa Agoyin served in Birmingham is an act of cultural diplomacy”, she said. 

She was confident that a deliberate engagement with the diaspora could unlock new growth sectors, attract foreign partnerships, and reverse brain drain.