NPN, AfPC Make Moves to Entrench Nigerian Diaspora for National Development

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Nigerian Professionals Network (NPN) and Africa Policy Conversations (AfPC) convened a landmark event at Kings House in London aimed at entrenching the Nigerian diaspora for national development.

 Titled ‘Nurturing Nigeria’s Future: Mobilising Resources for Impact Investments’, the event brought together Nigerian professionals and policymakers to explore avenues for impactful investments in Nigeria.

President of NPN, Olumide Lawal, set the stage by emphasising the diaspora’s pivotal role in fostering resilient communities and driving economic progress in Nigeria.

A highlight of the event was the dialogue with Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani who addressed challenges such as corruption, ethnic and religious biases in investments, policy uncertainties, and efforts by Kaduna State government to create a conducive environment for investments.

Sani underscored Kaduna’s reforms in business climate, removal of bureaucratic hurdles, and attracting significant investments in agriculture and solid minerals. 

He stated that Kaduna State has been able to attract about $600 million worth of investments in the state.

The session on investment opportunities showcased Plateau and Kaduna states’ potential in agriculture, mining, and renewable energy. 

Economic Adviser to the Governor of Kaduna State, Ibrahim Mohammed, detailed Kaduna’s vast agricultural resources and mining opportunities, highlighting the state’s proactive measures in establishing special economic zones and fostering partnerships to boost economic activities.

The event also featured insights from diaspora experts like Dr. Iwa Salami,  the Director of Centre of Fintech at University of East London, who emphasised financial inclusion through digital innovation and crowdfunding for MSMEs. Pastor Tobi Adegboyega, Founder of The Family, London stressed community empowerment as a catalyst for national progress, urging support for small businesses and professional networks.

This event not only fostered dialogue but also set a precedent for continued collaboration and actionable initiatives aimed at transforming Nigeria’s economic landscape through diaspora-driven investments and innovations.