- NIDO urged the government to expedite the diaspora voting bill, potentially granting voting rights to over 16 million Nigerians abroad
- NIDO chairman appealed for diaspora voting rights, citing their remittances, investments, and employment of youths despite being unable to vote
The Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) has urged the government to expedite the diaspora voting bill, which would allow Nigerians abroad to participate in the 2027 elections.
NIDO Worldwide Chairman, Dr. Victor Ubani, appealed this during a press conference in Abuja.
Current Nigerian laws require citizens to be physically present to vote. However, a bill in the House of Representatives aims to enable diaspora voting by the 2027 election cycle, potentially granting voting rights to over 16 million Nigerians living overseas.
“We visited the House Committee on Foreign Affairs chairman to emphasize our voting rights,” Ubani said. “With our remittances and investments, we are the highest employer of the youths, yet we can’t vote. We appealed for the diaspora to be given this right.”
Despite Nigeria’s challenging situation, Ubani encouraged diaspora members to invest in the country. He also called on the government to create a conducive environment for investment by improving infrastructure like electricity, roads, and security.