Nigeria earned a significant $21.9 billion in diaspora remittances in 2022, making up 64% of the total remittances in West Africa.
Vice President Kashim Shettima highlighted this achievement during the 10th Annual National Migration Dialogue, emphasizing the immense role these funds play in driving both national and global economic development.
Shettima explained that migration is not merely a physical transition between geographical locations but a powerful catalyst for fostering economic and social growth. He cited the example of Nigerian migrants excelling in various fields such as technology, medicine, sports, and creative arts, contributing to advancements globally. The Vice President also noted that Nigerian startups established by migrants attracted more than $800 million in investments in 2022, underscoring the transformative potential of Nigeria’s diaspora.
In his address, Shettima acknowledged that while remittances are essential, Nigerian migrants also serve as ambassadors on the global stage. Their contributions extend beyond financial support, with many excelling in various professional sectors worldwide. However, the Vice President also acknowledged the challenges of irregular migration, with Nigeria having already returned about 10,000 citizens in 2024 who had been detained for migration offenses.
Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to addressing migration challenges, citing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s pledge at the United Nations General Assembly. The Nigerian government has been proactive in implementing policies to improve migration governance, including modernizing border management, enhancing visa access, and fostering international collaborations with organizations such as the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
As Nigeria prepares to take leadership of the Euro-African Dialogue on Migration and Development in 2025, Shettima called for collective efforts to protect migrants’ rights and celebrate their contributions to the global economy.
