Edo Contributes 31% of Nigeria’s Diaspora Remittances - Agency Director

Edo State has emerged as a leading contributor to Nigeria’s economy through diaspora remittances, accounting for an estimated 31 percent of the country’s total inflow in 2024. This was disclosed by the Director-General of the Edo State Diaspora Agency, Dr. Loretta Ogboro-Okor, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday.

According to Dr. Ogboro-Okor, the state’s contribution underscores the prominent role Edo indigenes play in the global diaspora space and highlights their enduring commitment to the development of their homeland.

“Nigeria is home to an estimated 17 million citizens living abroad, and a significant proportion of them are from Edo State,” she said. “In 2017, the World Bank reported $22 billion in total diaspora remittances to Nigeria—$6 billion of that came from Edo. By 2024, total remittances rose to $24 billion, and Edo’s contribution grew to approximately $7 billion. That’s 31 percent of the national total.”

Dr. Ogboro-Okor attributed this performance to a deep-rooted culture of hard work, ambition, and strong family values among Edo people in the diaspora. These values, she said, fuel their desire to uplift families and communities back home.

“Edo people have always demonstrated resilience and a competitive spirit. These characteristics, shaped by our cultural and communal foundations, drive many of our citizens abroad to succeed and to give back generously,” she said.

She noted that the remittances go far beyond financial transactions; they are crucial lifelines that transform lives and sustain local development. “From housing to education, healthcare to entrepreneurship, these funds are instrumental in reshaping communities across the state,” she added.

The Director-General also emphasized the state government’s continued efforts to maintain active engagement with Edo citizens abroad. She revealed that the Diaspora Agency has been conducting awareness and harmonisation campaigns in several Italian cities including Rome, Verona, and Napoli targeting the Edo population residing there.

These initiatives, she explained, aim to deepen collaboration with diaspora groups and channel their contributions more effectively toward state development priorities.

She commended Edo citizens in Italy for their sustained remittance activities and consistent commitment to their roots. “The contributions of our people in Italy have not only strengthened the Edo economy but have also enhanced Nigeria’s global profile,” she said.

According to Dr. Ogboro-Okor, the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo remains proud of the achievements of Edo’s diaspora community and is focused on maximizing their developmental impact.

“The governor recognizes the value of our diaspora and is determined to create more inclusive platforms for engagement,” she said. “He is committed to ensuring that the welfare of Edo citizens, at home and abroad, remains a top priority.”

She concluded by calling on Edo indigenes around the world and their international partners to remain committed to the state’s progress and support ongoing development projects.

“The role of the diaspora in our future cannot be overstated. Edo’s global citizens are among our most valuable assets, and we will continue to work closely with them to build a stronger, more prosperous state,” she affirmed.