The Federal Government has urged Nigerians living abroad to play a greater role in the country’s economic and social development through investment, skills transfer and community projects.
Minister of Humanitarian Affairs Bernard Doro made the appeal at the 17th Annual Mbaise USA Convention in Baltimore, Maryland.
He said the government regarded the diaspora as an important partner in healthcare, technology, skills development and poverty reduction.
Mbaise USA National President Alozie Aguwa said the organisation was moving beyond periodic medical missions toward longer term infrastructure and development programmes.
Among its proposed projects is the Medville Medical City in Mbaise, Imo State, along with technology hubs and vocational training programmes intended to prepare young people for employment in the digital economy.
Participants also discussed plans for a N100 billion local development fund and investment vehicles aimed at mobilising private capital for community development.
The convention featured sessions on finance, infrastructure, technology, women led enterprise and cybersecurity.
Organisers said the annual gathering was intended to review ongoing projects, identify development challenges and mobilise resources from members of the diaspora.
Speakers urged participants to adopt a long term service and investment approach capable of producing lasting benefits in their home communities.
