The Association of Nigerians in Diaspora (ANDI), New York Chapter, has strongly criticized the demolition of properties belonging to diaspora investors in Nigeria, calling on the Federal Government to urgently intervene and protect the interests of affected citizens.
In a statement issued in Abuja by its President, Otunba Oladipo Dada, the group condemned the recent 2025 Diaspora Day celebration held by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), describing it as tone-deaf and insulting amid growing anger over the destruction of multimillion-naira investments.
Dada cited the demolition of the WINHOMES Estate in Okun Ajah, Lagos, as a glaring example of what he called systemic neglect, accusing NIDCOM of abandoning its core mandate by remaining silent on the issue. “The event was a misuse of national resources and a grave insult to diaspora citizens whose investments are being unlawfully destroyed,” he said.
He argued that such actions severely damage investor confidence and undermine Nigeria’s reputation as a destination for diaspora-backed investments. According to him, NIDCOM’s focus on awards and celebrations in the face of serious grievances reflects misplaced priorities.
Despite his criticism, Dada commended President Bola Tinubu and other tiers of government for ongoing efforts to engage the diaspora through remittance reforms and international partnerships. However, he stressed that policy statements must be backed by concrete action to protect diaspora rights and investments on the ground.
He called for a full public investigation into the demolitions, compensation for affected investors, and urgent reforms to prevent future occurrences. “Anything less will be interpreted as deliberate abandonment of diaspora citizens,” he warned.
ANDI reaffirmed its commitment to justice, transparency, and the protection of diaspora interests, urging the government to restore confidence and uphold its pro-investment agenda.
