The administration of Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has unveiled a bold new strategy to deepen engagement with Edo indigenes in the diaspora and harness their enormous financial contributions to drive sustainable socio-economic growth in the state.
The initiative, driven by the Edo State Diaspora Agency, is anchored on strengthening ties with Edo people abroad, improving their welfare, and repositioning their contributions as a key pillar of Edo’s development agenda.
Recent data reveals that Edo indigenes in the diaspora contribute an estimated $7 billion annually nearly one-third of Nigeria’s total diaspora remittances. Governor Okpebholo’s government aims to formalize these inflows through transparent, secure, and investment-driven channels capable of financing infrastructure and economic projects across the state.
In addition to its economic focus, the policy addresses the welfare of Edo citizens abroad, particularly tackling the risks and trauma associated with irregular migration. The administration is committed to providing economic support and compassionate assistance to Edo people globally.
A critical component of the plan is the launch of an online registration platform for Edo indigenes worldwide. The portal will offer diaspora members unique identifiers, access to business incentives, money transfer rebates, and investment opportunities, while also enhancing data for government policy decisions.
The government also intends to promote a community-driven development model, allowing local communities to identify priority needs while mobilizing diaspora support for targeted projects. This collaborative approach will help bridge geographic divides and foster unity among Edo people.
Furthermore, to combat irregular migration, the state plans to partner with media outlets for a public awareness series titled “Echoes from the Diaspora”, aimed at exposing the harsh realities faced by irregular migrants and discouraging risky journeys abroad.
Governor Okpebholo affirmed that this initiative is more than policy — it is a long-term movement to reposition diaspora remittances as a structured, sustainable force behind Edo’s development. He called on all Edo indigenes worldwide to actively engage and partner in this mission to build a prosperous, globally respected Edo State.
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