Diaspora-Led Investments Can Unlock More Foreign Capital for Nigeria — Stella Okengwu
- May 18
- 2 min read
The Chief Executive Officer of Winhomes Global Services Ltd, Engr. Stella Okengwu, has said Nigerians in the diaspora can play a major role in attracting foreign direct investment into the country through credible partnerships, strategic collaborations and transparent business practices.
Speaking during an interview on Diaspora Connect, Okengwu explained that her investment journey has focused on creating economic opportunities for Africans abroad while connecting international investors with Nigeria’s growing market potential.
According to her, sectors such as real estate, oil and gas, and beverages continue to offer strong opportunities despite existing economic and structural challenges facing the country.
She described Nigeria as one of Africa’s most promising consumer markets, citing its large population, expanding entrepreneurial culture and rising demand across several industries as key attractions for global investors.
Okengwu stressed that improving international perception about Nigeria requires integrity, professionalism and direct engagement with foreign partners.
She noted that many investors often change their opinions about the country after visiting and interacting with credible business operators.
“The best way to reshape perceptions is through experience, trust and professionalism. Once investors engage with responsible Nigerians and see the opportunities firsthand, their confidence grows,” she said.
The business executive revealed that some investors from Mexico who previously expressed concerns over insecurity became more optimistic after visiting Abuja and exploring business opportunities within the country.
She added that discussions are ongoing to deepen partnerships connected to her premium tequila business, with more than 30 Mexican business representatives expected in Nigeria for further engagements and expansion talks.
Okengwu disclosed that her business relationship with Mexican partners began in 2023 after observing similarities in entrepreneurial culture and consumer behaviour between Nigerians and Mexicans.
She also encouraged Nigerians living abroad to contribute actively to national development through investments, mentorship programmes and international collaborations.
According to her, migration should not be viewed entirely as a loss for Nigeria, but also as an opportunity for knowledge exchange, global exposure and economic networking.
While speaking on challenges affecting investment inflows, she identified policy inconsistency, weak maintenance systems and inadequate investor protection as major concerns discouraging foreign participation in the economy.
She called on government authorities to strengthen legal and institutional frameworks capable of protecting both local and foreign investors.
Okengwu further urged policymakers to improve critical sectors such as healthcare, education and social welfare, arguing that citizens should benefit more visibly from taxation and public policies.
Addressing Nigerian youths, she advised them to embrace entrepreneurship and focus on creating opportunities rather than depending solely on white-collar jobs or political appointments.
She maintained that Nigeria still possesses enormous economic potential for investors willing to operate transparently and build trusted local partnerships.
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