ATIKU UNVEILS HISTORIC DIASPORA REFORM AGENDA, PLEDGES GREATER RECOGNITION FOR NIGERIANS ABROAD
ATIKU ABUBAKAR UNVEILS BOLD COMMITMENT TO NIGERIANS IN THE DIASPORA
Former Vice President and Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has reaffirmed his commitment to recognizing the invaluable contributions of Nigerians living abroad by unveiling a comprehensive Diaspora Recognition and National Service Reform Policy.
Addressing Nigerians in the diaspora, Atiku described them as worthy ambassadors of the nation whose resilience, excellence, and dedication continue to project Nigeria positively across the world.
He acknowledged the enormous role played by diaspora remittances in sustaining the country's economy, noting that Nigerians abroad contributed an estimated $21.8 billion in remittances in 2025, providing vital support to millions of households and strengthening the nation's economy.
According to Atiku, many Nigerians were compelled to seek opportunities abroad due to insecurity, unemployment, economic hardship, and weak institutions—not because they stopped believing in Nigeria. Despite these challenges, they have remained committed to their homeland by supporting families, investing in communities, and contributing to national development.
To formally recognize these sacrifices, an Atiku-led administration will introduce a Diaspora Recognition and National Service Reform Policy that acknowledges the patriotic service rendered by Nigerians abroad.
As part of the proposed reform, qualified Nigerians in the diaspora would be considered to have fulfilled the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) obligation if they meet specific eligibility criteria, including lawful residence, a clean criminal record, meaningful contributions to their host countries, and verifiable professional experience abroad.
Atiku emphasized that responsible citizenship, lawful conduct, tax compliance, and positive contributions in host countries represent a meaningful service to Nigeria and deserve official recognition.
He also pledged to address the concerns preventing many Nigerians abroad from returning home by prioritizing:
Restoring security nationwide.
Reviving the economy and creating sustainable jobs.
Strengthening the value of the naira.
Protecting and encouraging diaspora investments.
Expanding diaspora participation in governance and national development.
Creating safer and more attractive pathways for return, investment, and national engagement.
"Our vision is to ensure that Nigerians in the diaspora are no longer treated as outsiders but as strategic partners in rebuilding our nation," Atiku stated.
He further assured Nigerians abroad of an open and inclusive administration that will engage them on issues affecting their welfare while creating a country where citizens return home out of hope and opportunity—not desperation.
A Greater Nigeria is Possible, and together we will build it."
Signed:
Professor Gold C. W. Emmanuel (PhD, CPsychol)
Senior Special Assistant on Communications & Intelligence to H.E. Atiku Abubakar, GCON
Presidential Candidate
African Democratic Congress (ADC)
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