President Bola Tinubu’s proposal to establish a $10 billion diaspora fund has elicited reactions from Nigerians living abroad.
The fund aims to draw investment from Nigerian citizens overseas to bolster key sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education, thereby stimulating economic growth.
The Nigerian government, via its Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, is soliciting bids from asset managers to establish the fund, according to a late Thursday report by Bloomberg.
However, amidst these developments, there have been calls from some Nigerians in the diaspora urging the government to prioritize enabling diaspora voting eligibility in Nigerian elections and ensuring the rule of law before proceeding with such initiatives.
Social media reactions have ranged from skepticism about the government’s intentions and concerns over corruption, to calls for addressing fundamental issues like infrastructure, security, and healthcare before creating new funds
Some commentators have issued warnings, cautioning the Igbo community to remain wary of the proposal. They cite historical ethnic tensions and recent incidents, such as the demolitions of Igbo properties and businesses in Lagos, as reasons for distrust towards Tinubu’s intentions.
Here are some reactions:
@EdesonJethro remarked, “Don’t take my opinion on this, but pay close attention on this said promise, they’re setting up funds to lobby diaspora Nigerians to support their scams in Nigeria. They should first enable diaspora eligibility to vote in Nigerian elections. Have rule of law.”
@etochris067 expressed concerns about potential ethnic and bigotry issues, stating, “The government will still play the ethnic and Bigotry card. IGBOS should be wiser now after the demolitions in Lagos.”
@Kemiolunloyo voiced skepticism, saying, “Too little too late. We are NOT coming back. I wasted 11 yrs in Nigeria 🇳🇬 #Kemitalks.”
@Kakanfo underscored the importance of transparency, stating, “I will surely invest in it so far they make it transparent.”
@NaijaMusings criticized the government’s priorities, suggesting, “Setting up opportunities to loot funds. Why not simply fix what’s not working: Road/infrastructure, Security, Healthcare. Fix those and investments will come. I swear Nigerian politicians are all thieves.”
@RealQueenBee__ raised questions about the government’s credibility, stating, “The same diaspora you wouldn’t allow to vote. Are they the same people that Nigeria is asking for their money? NEVER, it doesn’t work that way. Anyways, who gives a goat yam for safe keep?”
@NnaaMehnTv speculated on the motives behind the proposal, stating, “Their target are still the most hated IGBO man. Ashi, e no go work.”
@RealAlmoner expressed distrust towards the government, stating, “Thieves in government are making plans to loot on people’s sweat and hard work. They’ve understood that Nigerians abroad are now reluctant to remit their funds back home.”
@IkeGod_ distanced himself from the proposal, stating, “Count me out with these APC criminals and lunatics in charge of Nigeria’s National Treasury!”
@adaigbo_2022 pointed out similarities with previous criticisms, stating, “Chineke!! They copied what @emekabk21 said on twitter space yesterday.”
The reactions highlight the deep-seated skepticism and distrust among Nigerians abroad regarding the proposed diaspora fund, emphasizing the need for transparency, accountability, and addressing fundamental issues before seeking external investments.
