The Nigerian Diaspora has renewed its call for the right to vote, during a Town Hall Meeting held in New York on September 28, 2024.
Organized by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) in collaboration with News Central TV, the event was themed “Harnessing the Power of the Diaspora: The Right to Vote.”
The gathering highlighted the importance of political participation among Nigerians living abroad.
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Executive Chair and CEO of NIDCOM, delivered the keynote speech, emphasizing the need for the National Assembly to amend the constitution to allow for diaspora voting.
“We can no longer afford to pay lip service to this issue,” Dabiri-Erewa stated. “Nigerians abroad deserve the right to exercise their franchise.”
Oby Ezekwesili, former Minister of Education, also addressed the diaspora community, underscoring the significance of their involvement. “You stand to benefit directly from the right to vote,” she noted. “Your financial contributions are crucial, but your influence abroad is closely tied to Nigeria being a well-governed nation.”
As of 2022, there were over 700,000 Nigerians living in the USA, a figure Ezekwesili pointed out as having the potential to significantly impact Nigeria’s electoral process.
Dabiri-Erewa praised the contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora, calling them invaluable assets to the country both intellectually and financially. “Your hard work not only supports your families but also contributes immensely to the nation,” she said.
She also noted that previous Nigerian leaders, including former Presidents Obasanjo, Yar’Adua, Jonathan, and President Bola Tinubu, have been advocates for extending voting rights to Nigerians living abroad.
The Town Hall Meeting explored the challenges and opportunities related to diaspora voting, with experts and stakeholders discussing policy frameworks and how diasporans can drive change.
Dabiri-Erewa stressed the need for Nigerians abroad to actively lobby their representatives in parliament. “If they don’t make it happen, nothing will change,” she said.
She also revealed that NIDCOM has submitted a memo to the Committee on Constitutional Review, advocating for the right of the diaspora to vote.
Highlighting that over 100 countries, including many African nations, already allow diaspora voting, she added, “It’s time for Nigeria to follow suit.”
This session, part of the ongoing #NCTownhallSeries, marked a significant shift in focus towards electoral rights and the political influence of the diaspora.
The meeting, held at JaySuites in New York, was broadcast live on News Central TV, allowing diasporans worldwide to participate.
