Nigeria is ramping up efforts to convert over $20 billion in annual diaspora remittances into productive investments, as the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) announced plans for a major global investment conference aimed at mobilising Nigerians abroad.
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NiDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, disclosed that the Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference (NIDEC) 2026 will hold from August 13 to 15 in Mississauga, Toronto, Canada.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Dabiri-Erewa said the initiative is designed to shift diaspora contributions from consumption-driven remittances to long-term investments that can drive economic growth.
She explained that the summit, themed “Invest Nigeria, Thrive Abroad,” will connect diaspora professionals and investors with credible opportunities across key sectors of the Nigerian economy.
According to her, the event will function as a results-oriented investment marketplace, enabling participants to negotiate deals, hold business-to-business meetings, and sign memoranda of understanding.
Key sectors expected to feature at the conference include fintech and digital innovation, agriculture and agro-processing, mining and renewable energy, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, real estate, infrastructure, and financial services.
Dabiri-Erewa said Canada was selected as host country due to its growing Nigerian community, particularly in healthcare, technology, and finance, adding that the event is being organised in collaboration with Nigerian and Canadian diplomatic missions.
Beyond investment discussions, the conference will also feature cultural showcases, including the Flavours of Nigeria Festival and The Headies, which is scheduled to hold in Canada for the first time.
She urged state governments, financial institutions, entrepreneurs, and diaspora professionals to leverage the platform to attract global capital and foster partnerships.
Dabiri-Erewa added that arrangements are underway to facilitate visa access for participants, with a dedicated registration portal to be launched soon.
She emphasised that the conference is expected to attract investors, policymakers, and business leaders from across multiple continents, positioning Nigeria’s diaspora as a critical driver of national development.
By Michael Olugbode
