The All Progressives Congress (APC) Diaspora Coordination Adviser has reaffirmed that Nigerians living abroad remain entitled to participate in the country’s democratic process, stressing that relocation to another country does not diminish their constitutional rights or responsibilities as citizens.
The adviser made the remarks while addressing discussions on the role of Nigerians in the diaspora in national development and political participation. According to him, millions of Nigerians residing outside the country continue to make significant contributions to the nation’s economy and should also have meaningful opportunities to influence its democratic future.
He explained that although many Nigerians have relocated overseas in search of better education, employment, or business opportunities, they remain stakeholders in the country’s progress and should not be excluded from conversations about governance and national development.
The APC official noted that diaspora Nigerians contribute billions of dollars annually in remittances to support families, businesses, and investments across the country. Beyond financial contributions, he said many also provide professional expertise, technology transfer, humanitarian support, and investment that benefit local communities.
According to him, such contributions demonstrate that Nigerians abroad remain deeply connected to the country’s affairs despite living outside its borders.
The adviser argued that democracy thrives when every eligible citizen has an opportunity to participate, regardless of where they reside. He therefore encouraged Nigerians in the diaspora to remain actively engaged in civic discussions, political debates, policy advocacy, and other lawful democratic activities.
He stressed that maintaining interest in national affairs would help strengthen accountability and encourage better governance, as leaders are more likely to respond when citizens consistently demand transparency and effective service delivery.
The APC chieftain also urged Nigerians abroad to continue supporting initiatives that promote national unity, peace, and economic growth. He said the country needs the collective efforts of citizens both at home and abroad to overcome its developmental challenges.
He observed that many countries have successfully integrated their diaspora communities into national development through investment programmes, advisory roles, and broader civic engagement. Nigeria, he added, stands to benefit from similar collaboration by harnessing the knowledge, experience, and global exposure of its citizens overseas.
The adviser further stated that Nigerians abroad should avoid becoming disconnected from developments back home. Instead, he encouraged them to remain informed about public policies, elections, constitutional matters, and issues affecting their communities.
According to him, active participation in democratic processes extends beyond voting and includes promoting peaceful elections, supporting credible institutions, engaging in constructive dialogue, and encouraging national development initiatives.
He also appealed to diaspora organisations to strengthen partnerships with government institutions, civil society groups, and private sector organisations to support economic development, innovation, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment across Nigeria.
Political analysts believe the remarks reflect the increasing recognition of the strategic importance of Nigeria’s diaspora community. Over the years, remittances from Nigerians abroad have remained one of the country’s major sources of foreign exchange, helping many households meet essential needs and supporting numerous businesses.
Experts also note that many diaspora Nigerians possess valuable international experience that could contribute to policy development, technological advancement, entrepreneurship, and institutional reforms if effectively utilised.
However, discussions surrounding the participation of Nigerians abroad in elections continue to generate debate. While many stakeholders support the introduction of diaspora voting, others argue that significant legal, constitutional, logistical, and electoral challenges must first be addressed before such a system can be implemented.
Several advocacy groups have continued to call for legislative reforms that would allow eligible Nigerians residing overseas to vote in future elections, similar to practices adopted in a number of other democratic countries.
Supporters of the proposal argue that expanding political participation would strengthen democracy by ensuring that all citizens have a voice in choosing their leaders. Critics, however, maintain that careful planning is necessary to preserve the credibility, transparency, and security of the electoral process.
Despite differing opinions, there is broad agreement that Nigerians abroad remain important contributors to national development. Their investments, professional expertise, charitable initiatives, and international networks continue to play significant roles in supporting economic growth and improving livelihoods across the country.
The APC adviser concluded by urging diaspora Nigerians not to lose interest in the nation’s affairs, emphasizing that citizenship carries both rights and responsibilities regardless of geographical location. He encouraged them to continue supporting democratic values, national unity, and sustainable development while working together with citizens at home to build a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
