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Senate appoints Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as committee chair on diaspora

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The Senate has appointed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, as the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Diaspora Affairs.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) revailed the announcement made by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during Tuesday’s plenary session.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, a strong advocate for economic development and social welfare, pledged to prioritize the well-being of Nigerians abroad.

She emphasized the need for Nigeria to harness the expertise of its diaspora community, especially in the technology sector.

She believes Nigeria has failed to maximize the potential of skilled citizens living abroad in key industries.

Many Nigerians abroad have made significant contributions to medicine, engineering, and information technology in their host countries.

She stated that effective policies could encourage these professionals to invest in Nigeria’s economy and technological advancement.

She also highlighted the financial contributions of Nigerians overseas, which have significantly boosted the country’s economy.

Nigeria has received substantial foreign inflows over the past decade, with remittances reaching $25 billion annually.

She noted that in 2024, remittance flows to Sub-Saharan Africa totaled $54 billion, with Nigeria accounting for over 35 percent.

She stressed that reducing remittance costs from 7.5% to 3% would increase foreign exchange inflows and strengthen the economy.

She proposed establishing a diaspora bank, similar to Ghana’s model, to facilitate easier financial transactions for Nigerians abroad.

The Senate Committee on Diaspora Affairs, under her leadership, will explore policies that keep the Nigerian diaspora engaged in national development.

Beyond financial contributions, she emphasized that Nigerians abroad possess valuable knowledge that can drive innovation and infrastructure development.

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She assured that the Senate would work on policies to protect the rights and interests of Nigerians living overseas.

Many Nigerians face immigration challenges and economic hardships in their host countries, which require urgent intervention.

The Senate also announced new leadership for other key committees during the plenary session.

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC-Abia) was appointed Chairman of the Senate Committee on the South-East Development Commission.

Senator Babangida Hussaini (APC-Jigawa) was named Chairman of the Senate Committee on the North-West Development Commission.

Additionally, Senator Mohammed Dandutse (APC-Katsina) and Senator Ken Eze (APC-Ebonyi) were named Vice Chairmen of these committees.

The Senate aims to enhance legislative oversight and ensure policies that benefit Nigerians both at home and abroad.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is confident that her leadership will strengthen Nigeria’s ties with its diaspora community.

She urged Nigerians abroad to remain connected to their home country and contribute to national development.

She assured that the Senate would advocate for their interests and address challenges in remittances and investment.

Her appointment comes at a time when emigration is rising, with professionals leaving for better opportunities abroad.

She believes meaningful engagement with the diaspora can help address Nigeria’s economic and technological challenges.

Her experience in governance and advocacy will guide the Senate Committee on Diaspora Affairs in shaping impactful policies.

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