U.S. pledges support for Nigerian diasporans, partnership with NiDCOM

The Executive Director, United States’ Presidential Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement (PAC-ADE), Ms. Deniece Laurent-Mantey, has reaffirmed PAC-ADE’s commitment to build robust platforms and partnerships with Nigeria, that enhance the diaspora’s impact.

Speaking at the 7th Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit in Abuja yesterday, Laurent-Mantey noted that the goal of PAC-ADE is to make it easier for diaspora members to go beyond individual remittances and participate in pooled investments, by creating opportunities for Nigerians in the U.S. to partner with local entrepreneurs, support small and medium-sized enterprises, and invest in larger development projects that foster stability and economic growth in Nigeria.

“PAC-ADE is laying groundwork for a stronger, more resilient Nigeria,” she said.
Laurent-Mantey expressed gratitude for the support of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and the leadership of Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

Dabiri-Erewa, expressed appreciation to Ms. Laurent-Mantey, for showing dedication and leadership within the African diaspora.
The NiDCOM boss underscored the need for collective action in the diaspora, a principle that aligns with PAC-ADE’s core mission.

She shared her vision for a Diaspora Investment Fund, encouraging collaborative investments among diaspora communities.

“Imagine 1,000 diasporas put together $100 and then you start to invest in your country; it’s going to be very, very impactful,” she added.

She also expressed optimism for future collaborations.

“So we’re glad with the initiatives of the American African Diaspora Council under this administration, and we look forward to working with the Council and we thank the U.S. government,” she said.

Dr. Dabiri-Erewa reaffirmed the commission’s dedication to creating partnerships that leverage the resources, skills, and aspirations of the diaspora for Nigeria’s advancement.

She further expressed hope for ongoing collaborations that will build economic resilience and create job opportunities across Nigeria, adding, “as we’ve said here, and we’re saying it again for the Nigerian diaspora, we want to work with you. We want to build this country together. We want to ensure that Nigerians at home work with Nigerians in the diaspora to build this big country of ours.”

Dabiri-Erewa additionally recognised the contributions of prominent diaspora figures, such as Mr. Christopher Brooks, highlighting his passion for fostering investment opportunities that empower small businesses and drive economic progress in Nigeria.

The 7th NDIS which lasted three days, had as theme “Adapting Stability Through Diaspora Investment: Navigating The Path to prosperity.