FG to Set Up Diaspora Database

To boost policy making and planning purposes for Nigerians in Diaspora, the Federal Government is working on an institutional framework for the establishment of a Diaspora Database.

This was part of the communique issued at the end of a two-day 8th Diaspora Day /Conference in Abuja.

It also noted that the request for diaspora voting is receiving deserved attention by appropriate agency of government, despite its logistic challenges.

It reads: “Noted the decision of the Federal Government to issue Permanent Resident certificates to Nigerians in the Diaspora who are not permitted to have dual citizenship by their host authorities.

“Recognised that the Diaspora remains a veritable source of Foreign Direct Investment, skills, technical know-how, as well as a credible partner in building a knowledge – based economy.

“Encourage Nigerians in the Diaspora to take advantage of the lucrative and abundant business opportunities in Agriculture, Power, Transportation Infrastructure, Mining and other non-oil sectors, to invest in the Nigerian Economy.

“Recognise the positive impact of the $21 billion diaspora remittances to the Nigerian economy in 2015.

“Encourage the Diaspora who engaged in medical intervention to source their drugs in Nigeria, instead of importing them from abroad.”

The communique also welcomed the commitment of the Nigerian diplomatic missions to continue to engage and mobilize the Nigerian community abroad on wide ranging issues including potentials for investment in the national economy and seeking means to address the various challenges militating against growth and development.