The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has teamed up with FirstBank to enhance banking services for Nigerians living abroad, unveiling a new platform—Diaspora Home and Abroad—to offer secure and accessible housing solutions.

Announced in a statement on Friday, NiDCOM Chairperson, Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, highlighted the platform's goal of tapping into the economic power of Nigerians overseas while addressing persistent issues related to real estate investments from abroad.

“This collaboration with FirstBank introduces a trusted system that helps diaspora Nigerians avoid fraudulent property transactions, giving them greater confidence to invest in homes back home,” she said.

The platform is designed to safeguard investments by offering verified housing options, tackling the widespread concern of scams in the real estate sector.

Speaking on behalf of FirstBank Group CEO, Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu, the bank’s Head of Brand Strategy and Financial Planning, Ms. Abimbola Meshinoye, acknowledged the vital role the diaspora plays in Nigeria’s economic growth.

“With over $20 billion in annual remittances, the Nigerian diaspora not only supports families but also contributes significantly to national development and international goodwill,” Alebiosu stated.

Abdulrahman Terab, Head of Technology, Transfer, Innovation, and Investment at NiDCOM, pointed out that many diaspora Nigerians have been victims of fraud when trying to acquire property, often losing significant sums in the process.

He noted that the new initiative aims to restore trust in Nigeria’s financial and property markets and encourage diaspora investment. “Though countries like Senegal and Ghana have attracted their diasporas, Nigeria remains the top destination of choice for most Africans abroad,” Terab added.

Through this collaboration, NiDCOM and FirstBank hope to create a seamless and reliable system that supports diaspora Nigerians in owning property and contributing to the nation's development.