By Hosea Parah, Abuja
The Association of Nigerians in Diaspora (ANDI), New York Chapter, has issued a strong condemnation of the recently held 2025 Diaspora Day celebration at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, describing it as a tone-deaf and wasteful display in the face of deepening diaspora disillusionment and unaddressed investment injustices.
In a statement signed by its President, Otunba Oladipo Dada, the association called the event—organized by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM)—a misdirected exercise that fails to reflect the painful realities confronting thousands of Nigerians living abroad, especially in the United States.
“The 2025 Diaspora Day celebration is not only a misuse of national resources, but a grave insult to the countless diaspora citizens whose legitimate investments back home are being unlawfully destroyed,” said Otunba Dada. “This celebration rings hollow to those who have lost millions through the illegal demolition of their properties in Lagos, particularly the well-documented case of WINHOMES Estate in Okun Ajah.”
Dada pointed to NIDCOM’s continued silence on the issue as a betrayal of its core mandate. He accused the Commission’s Chairperson, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, of organizing glitzy ceremonies while ignoring the anguish and financial ruin suffered by diaspora investors.
“Rather than defending the interests of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR’s pro-investment agenda, NIDCOM has instead become preoccupied with awards and fanfare,” Dada added. “This negligence not only undermines investor confidence but also contradicts Nigeria’s global image as a safe destination for diaspora engagement.”
The Association is demanding immediate federal intervention—including a public investigation, restitution, and protective policy reforms to safeguard diaspora investments.
“We call on the federal government and all relevant authorities to urgently address the grievances of affected diaspora citizens, particularly those linked to the WINHOMES demolition and similar injustices across the country. Anything less will be interpreted as willful abandonment.”
The Association of Nigerians in Diaspora (ANDI) reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rights and investments of Nigerian citizens abroad and vowed to continue advocating for justice, accountability, and real inclusion.