By Aisha Muhammad Magaji
Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians living abroad of the Tinubu administration’s commitment to robust engagement, emphasizing that their contributions are vital to national development.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during a meeting with members of the Nigerian community in the United States, on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Shettima expressed gratitude for their continued support and highlighted the value of their skills and experiences.
“I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart, but I will have to come back to the U.S. again and have a more robust engagement with you,” Shettima said. “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.”
The Vice President stressed that the administration aims to deepen engagement with Nigerians abroad, particularly through initiatives facilitated by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM). These efforts seek to ensure that Nigerians overseas can actively contribute to the country’s economic, social, and political development.
“The diaspora plays a crucial role in positioning Nigeria on the global stage,” Shettima said, urging Nigerians abroad to continue believing in their home country as reforms take hold.
Under President Tinubu’s leadership, the administration has introduced policies to boost remittance inflows and economic participation from the diaspora. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has set ambitious targets to increase remittances to $1 billion monthly, aiming to strengthen economic stability and growth.
Shettima also highlighted ongoing reforms in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and technology, emphasizing that these initiatives are designed to create a conducive environment for Nigerians at home and abroad to thrive.
The Vice President’s engagement signals a strategic approach to leverage the diaspora’s expertise, networks, and resources for national development. By fostering stronger ties, the Tinubu administration aims to ensure that Nigerians overseas play an active role in Nigeria’s transformation and global positioning.
Shettima concluded by reiterating that regular consultations and collaboration with the diaspora remain a priority for the administration, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to inclusive governance and development.
