From Umar Dankano, Yola
The Nigerian Diaspora Investment and Cultural Alliance (NDICA), in partnership with the All Progressives Congress (APC) United Kingdom Chapter, has finalized plans to host a two-day Economic Business Roundtable Forum in November 2025.
In a statement issued at the weekend, the APC-UK Chapter announced that the forum, under the leadership of APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawa Yilwatda, aims to mobilize diaspora expertise and capital investments to drive Nigeria’s national transformation.
A key highlight of the forum will be the unveiling of the proposed “Diaspora Investment and Skills Repatriation Desk,” which will be presented and deliberated on during Day Two.
The desk is expected to serve as a platform for tracking investment commitments and facilitating liaison with stakeholders. The event will culminate in a Gala Night and Awards Ceremony, where Professor Yilwatda will receive a special recognition award.
Scheduled for November 6th and 7th, the forum will feature an agenda focused on critical areas of Nigeria’s economic development. Discussions will center on “Mobilising Diaspora Expertise and Capital” and “Driving Skills Repatriation and Sustainable Growth.”
Day One will spotlight Nigeria’s investment landscape, with presentations on economic policy frameworks, investment reforms, and incentives for Foreign Direct Investment. Day Two will focus on ethics, skills repatriation, and innovation. The program will also feature a book presentation by Senator Abu Ibrahim and a panel session on “Harnessing Diaspora Expertise & Skills Repatriation.”
The event will host interactive sessions with Nigerian government officials, including the APC Chairman, governors, and ministers, as well as a business matchmaking segment to connect diaspora investors with government representatives and private sector partners.
The forum’s priority areas include infrastructure, agriculture, energy, ICT, manufacturing, and the creative industry, alongside opportunities in the housing sector for returning professionals. Contributions are also expected from diaspora professionals and senior government officials.
Organizers emphasized that the initiative is a strategic effort to harness the skills and resources of the Nigerian diaspora, whose remittances continue to play a vital role in the nation’s economy.
The forum will close with a session on “Creative Industries & the Innovation Ecosystem,” highlighting investment opportunities and pathways for fostering partnerships.
According to the statement, the forum is envisioned as a critical platform for networking, investment dialogue, and shaping collaborative strategies to advance Nigeria’s economic growth.