Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The Nigeria in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has given a good account of its activities saying that the 7th Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS) held in November, 2024, achieved a huge success by attracting over 1, 500 participants, generating 168 investment deals worth approximately N673 million, and cementing its reputation as a critical platform for promoting diaspora-led economic development in Nigeria.
The Chairman and CEO of NIDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, made this disclosure while briefing the press ahead of the 2025 edition scheduled to hold in November with President Bola Tinubu as Special Guest of Honour.
She said that last year’s summit brought together 236 diaspora and international investors alongside 1,197 local business owners and 168 government officials, facilitating direct connections that translated into real financial commitments across key economic sectors.
Over the course of the event, she said 56 business pitches were presented spanning industries such as creative industries, infrastructure and real estate, energy, and agribusiness, highlighting Nigeria’s entrepreneurial vibrancy and investment potential.
Dabiri-Erewa reeled out the outcomes and impact during the official press briefing for the upcoming 8th edition of the Summit.
“The 2024 Summit was truly remarkable, not only for the volume of deals secured, but also for the diversity of sectors that flourished. The creative, entertainment, and sport sector alone accounted for 39 investment deals, showcasing the immense talent and global appeal of Nigerian creatives.
“Infrastructure and real estate led the financial tally, securing about N201 million through 22 deals, while energy attracted N172 million across four significant investments,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
She maintained that the agribusiness sector also recorded substantial interest, with 28 deals worth N103 million, underscoring the on-going opportunities in Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. She highlighted how these investments translate into tangible benefits for ordinary Nigerians.