Diaspora investment summit 2025: Diaspora investors chart new pathways for national development

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As the 8th Nigerian Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS) continues in Abuja with renewed optimism, stakeholders like investors, government officials and entrepreneurs charted bold pathways to accelerate national development through strategic investments.

With the theme “Fast-Tracking Regional and National Development by Mobilising Diaspora Investment,” the Summit drew over 1,000 physical participants from Nigeria and the Diaspora as well as several others who joined virtually. 

Organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) in collaboration with the Nigerian Diaspora Summit Initiative (NDSI), the event reaffirmed the diaspora’s vital role as a powerhouse for innovation, enterprise, and sustainable growth.

Dr. Badewa Adejugbe-Williams,  NDIS Coordinator, described the Summit as a bridge connecting ideas, people, and opportunities.

 “Every edition of NDIS tells a story of progress, resilience, and possibility,” she said.

 “It reminds us that when Nigerians at home and abroad work together, the outcome is always extraordinary” she added.

She commended the sustained support of partners, investors, and sponsors, while expressing special appreciation to Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, for her unwavering leadership in creating platforms that link the Diaspora to national development.

“The success of it  reflects what can happen when passion meets purpose,”

 “The diaspora continues to prove that distance does not diminish patriotism, it strengthens it,” Adejugbe Williams added.

Highlights of the summit include high-level panel discussions, startup pitches, and exhibitions across priority sectors.

 The energy was palpable as participants explored how diaspora collaboration can translate into tangible investments for job creation and inclusive growth.

Technology and Education took centre stage as innovators showcased transformative ideas.

 Moderated by Ms. Evelyn Dan Epelle, MD/CEO of IGET, diaspora innovators presented cutting-edge solutions in FinTech, ICT, logistics, and e-learning.

 Epelle noted that FinTech continues to redefine inclusion in Nigeria’s digital economy, adding, “Technology is no longer a luxury. It is the foundation for Nigeria’s next growth phase, and the diaspora is a powerful engine behind that transformation.”

The Education and Human Capital session, moderated by Prof. Onyishi Ernest Ike, spotlighted innovative proposals aimed at improving learning access, quality, and employability.

 Ike stressed that sustained investment in education remains critical to Nigeria’s long-term growth. “Our young people are our greatest asset,”

 “Investing in their minds is investing in Nigeria’s future,” he said.

Diaspora investors engaged directly with startup founders, exploring how scalable, impact-driven solutions can support national priorities in education and technology.

The 3- day event continues with a shared commitment among participants to deepen partnerships that make the Nigerian Diaspora a true force for innovation, investment, and nation-building.