Nigerians in the United States have commended the 8th National Assembly for keeping to its promise by passing the Diaspora Commission Bill.
Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, had vowed during a courtesy visit by the group to the National Assembly last year for the Diaspora day, that his leadership would ensure the bill is passed without further delay.
Persistently, Nigerians in the Diaspora have been contributing money in billions and other resources home to assist the Federal Government boosting the nation’s economy with available statistics showing over 35 Billion dollars was remitted last year
While lauding the Senate for the quick passage of the bill, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Attorney, Samuel Adewusi, said the bill would provide for legitimate budget item to address Diaspora issues with seriousness and engagement of Nigerians in diaspora in the policies, projects and participation in the development of Nigeria.
Mr. Adewusi, in a statement made available to reporters on Friday, specifically added that the bill would also go a long way in boosting the economic growth of Nigeria, considering the huge amount remitted by Nigerians every year.
“Congratulations to the 8th Senate under the leadership of Distinguished Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki and Senator Rose Oko - Chairman Senate Committee on Diaspora & Civil Society - for passing the Diaspora Commission Bill as promised.
“The efforts by the NIDO Worldwide Leadership should also be appreciated. During its visit to the Joint Plenary Session in February 2016, this is one of the major requests that were tabled to the Senate and the House.
“Much appreciation to all those involved in the past and present, such as Hon. Rita Orji, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, prior NIDO leadership, and our friends in the 8th National Assembly such as Bamikole Omishore and many more,” said Attorney Adewusi.
He, however, assured that NIDO would continue to contribute its quota to the development of the country and calls on lawmakers to also immediately start working on the Bill to allow Nigerians in Diaspora to Vote in the next general election.
The bill is expected to be forwarded to Mr President Muhammadu Buhari for his assent.
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