Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians living abroad of more robust engagement in the policies and programmes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, stressing that their contributions will be central to Nigeria’s developmental agenda.
Speaking in New York during an interactive session with the Nigerian community on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Shettima urged citizens overseas to sustain confidence in the country’s trajectory under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Each one of you has value-addition capabilities in your own way, and your experience is not something you can buy in the market. You have earned it. Continue to believe in Nigeria. Nigeria is on the right track. In the fullness of time, we will occupy our rightful place in the comity of nations,” he said.
According to a statement by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President pointed to Nigeria’s strengthening macroeconomic fundamentals, citing foreign reserves nearing $40 billion, rising state revenues, and unprecedented nationwide infrastructure projects. He also referenced youth-focused initiatives such as the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as proof of inclusive growth.
Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, highlighted government reforms benefiting Nigerians abroad, including smoother passport processing, the introduction of non-resident Bank Verification Numbers (BVNs), and new avenues for investment.
“Under this administration, it is easier for you to get your passport. The non-resident BVN is now working, and you don’t need to come home to get it. Most importantly, Nigeria’s economy is being transformed, and the country is now a good place to invest,” she said.
Diaspora professionals at the meeting expressed readiness to channel investments into mining, healthcare, artificial intelligence, fintech, the creative industry, and agriculture. Amazon AI engineer Adebimpe Daniels, healthcare expert Saratu Garba, and investor Idoni Matthew were among those who pledged support.
Shettima has since travelled to Frankfurt, Germany, where he is scheduled to continue high-level engagements with development partners.
