Ola Akinwunmi
A staggering 5,000 Nigerian women are currently stranded in Iraq, according to Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM). These women were initially sent to Iraq as caregivers, only to find themselves stranded and facing harsh realities.
Dabiri-Erewa shared a heart-wrenching story of a Nigerian woman who died mysteriously in Iraq, leaving her husband struggling to bring her body back home. The Nigerian Mission in Iraq has intervened, and an autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of her death.
Despite the challenges faced by Nigerians, Dabiri-Erewa emphasized that there are vast opportunities for investment in Nigeria. She encouraged participants at a seminar in Lagos to explore these opportunities, rather than seeking greener pastures abroad.
The seminar, organized by NIDCOM and G-Consulting International Services Limited, aimed to promote diaspora investment potentials in Nigeria. Group Managing Director of G-Consulting, Dr. Godfrey Ajayi Sunday, announced plans to mobilize over $100 million in funding to support participants in establishing businesses in partnership with Nigerians in the diaspora.
Dabiri-Erewa also highlighted the growing interest of Nigerians in the diaspora to invest in their homeland. She cited the example of 14 individuals who recently discovered their Nigerian roots through DNA testing and are now eager to invest in the country.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges of irregular migration, Dabiri-Erewa’s revelation serves as a stark reminder of the need for increased awareness and support for Nigerians stranded abroad.