WeAfric at the Nigerian Diaspora Direct Investment Summit 2023: Renewing Nigeria and Africa
The 10th-anniversary celebration of the Nigerian Diaspora Direct Investment Summit (NDDIS) held on October 5, 2023, at the Holiday Inn in Kensington, London, UK. Founded by Chief Bimbo Roberts Folayan, NDDIS serves as a platform encouraging Nigerians in the diaspora to play a pivotal role in fostering a vibrant economic landscape in Nigeria. Over the past decade, NDDIS has significantly impacted both the diaspora and Nigeria, creating networking, collaboration, and investment opportunities. NDDIS, with ten years of coordinating investment summits in the United Kingdom, has created opportunities for economic growth and job creation in Nigeria. The organisation connects diaspora investors with opportunities, fostering economic growth and facilitating the exchange of goods and services.
A Confluence of Leaders and Entrepreneurs
This year's NDDIS attracted notable attendees, including government officials and entrepreneurs from various sectors. Notable participants included:
- Folasade Yemi-Esan, Head of Service of the Nigerian Civil Service
- Okike Valentine, Commissioner for Special Duties, Ebonyi State
- Governor Zulum of Borno State, represented by Nancy Brian Mbaya
- Ambassador Ishola Sarafa, Nigeria High Commissioner to the United Kingdom
- Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM)
- Tim Morris, former British Ambassador and Senior Trade Adviser on Africa
- Abdul-Ganiyu Obatoyinbo, Administrator/CEO, Public Service Institute of Nigeria
- Entrepreneurs from various sectors
Ambassador Ishola Sarafa's Encouraging Message
Ambassador Sarafa encouraged investors to consider Nigeria as a prime destination for their investments, emphasizing that the security concerns highlighted in the media primarily occur in remote areas. He urged investors to approach the Nigeria High Commission for accurate information.
"Embrace the opportunities, and don't be deterred by occasional challenges. When it comes to investing in Nigeria, you can trust the Nigeria High Commission for the most accurate and up-to-date information. We're here to support you on your journey to success." - Ambassador Ishola Sarafa.
Addressing Healthcare Challenges and Facilitating Collaboration
The summit addressed Nigeria's healthcare challenges with a dedicated panel session featuring prominent healthcare professionals and stakeholders. They discussed the issues and proposed viable solutions, acknowledging the importance of an efficient and robust healthcare sector in Nigeria.
Creating a Platform for Networking and Collaboration
The primary objective of the summit was to establish a platform where diaspora investors could interact with potential sponsors, partners, and government officials. This initiative aimed to bridge the gap between diaspora investors and individuals seeking investment opportunities in Nigeria, fostering collaboration and economic growth. WeAfric actively participated in this transformative event, reinforcing its commitment to empowering the African diaspora, promoting economic growth, and nurturing unity within the community.
