Diaspora investors, government officials, and entrepreneurs have pledged bold and strategic investments to accelerate Nigeria’s national development, as the 8th Nigerian Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS 2025) continues in Abuja.

In a statement signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Head of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, NiDCOM, Abuja, the summit is being held under the theme “Fast-Tracking Regional and National Development by Mobilising Diaspora Investment”, drawing over 1,000 participants from Nigeria and the diaspora, with additional attendees joining virtually.

The statement reads partly: “Every edition of NDIS tells a story of progress, resilience, and possibility. It reminds us that when Nigerians at home and abroad work together, the outcome is always extraordinary. 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.”

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

Dr. Badewa Adejugbe-Williams, NDIS Coordinator, described the event as “a bridge connecting ideas, people, and opportunities,” while commending Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, for creating platforms that connect diaspora investors to national development priorities.

The summit featured high-level panel discussions, startup pitches, and exhibitions, with participants exploring how diaspora collaboration can translate into tangible investments for job creation and inclusive growth.

Technology and Education dominated proceedings. Moderated by Ms. Evelyn Dan Epelle, MD/CEO of IGET, diaspora innovators showcased FinTech, ICT, logistics, and e-learning solutions, with Epelle stating: “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.”

In the Education and Human Capital session, moderated by Prof. Onyishi Ernest Ike, participants explored strategies to improve learning access, quality, and employability.

Ike emphasised: “Our young people are our greatest asset. Investing in their minds is investing in Nigeria’s future.”

Throughout the three-day event, diaspora investors engaged directly with startup founders, evaluating scalable, impact-driven projects aligned with Nigeria’s national priorities in technology and education.