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Legislative bills

Nigeria Advances Plans for Diaspora Voting Bill, Emphasizes Inclusive Governance

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Nigerian Government is set to enhance democratic participation by extending voting rights to citizens living abroad. According to Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the proposed Diaspora Voting Bill aligns with the legislative agenda of inclusion, accountability, and economic reforms. The initiative aims to create a unified policy framework for diaspora governance, leveraging technology and institutions to improve access to government services.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Federal Government is advancing plans for the Diaspora Voting Bill, granting Nigerians living abroad the constitutional right to participate in national elections.
  • The 10th House of Representatives considers diaspora engagement a national priority, aligned with its legislative agenda of inclusion, accountability, and economic reforms.
  • The Nigerians in Diaspora Response (NiDRes) App and Website, launched by the House Committee on Diaspora, aims to simplify access to government services and communication with missions globally.
  • The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has made significant progress in diaspora engagement, including groundbreaking strides in health, education, agriculture, ICT, transportation, and volunteerism.
  • The NIDCOM has implemented several key initiatives, including the National Diaspora Policy, approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on April 28, 2021.
  • Diaspora remittances remain Nigeria's highest source of foreign exchange, amounting to US$23.81 billion in 2019, approximately 6% of the nation's GDP.
  • Challenges confronting NiDCOM include limited funding, inadequate office accommodation, and the need to amend the NiDCOM Act to secure a sustainable funding mechanism from diaspora remittance charges.
  • The NiSEDiG 2025 and NiDRes App launch symbolize Nigeria's renewed commitment to building a stronger, structured, and inclusive diaspora engagement ecosystem.

Statistics:

  • US$23.81 billion: the amount of diaspora remittances in 2019, accounting for approximately 6% of Nigeria's GDP.
  • 6 years: the period since the establishment of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
  • 10th House of Representatives: the current legislative session, prioritizing diaspora engagement and inclusive governance.
  • July 25: the date for the National Diaspora Day, celebrating diaspora contributions to national development.
  • June 2021: the month in which the Diaspora Data Mapping Portal was launched.

Sources:

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Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Hon. Tochukwu Chinedu Okere, Chairman, House Committee on Diaspora.

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).

National Diaspora Policy, approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on April 28, 2021.

Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM).

Diaspora Data Mapping Portal.

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