50 Nigerian-Americans Return Home to Invest in Nigeria’s Economic Future

RYNI News | Omotayo Stephen . O
6 September 2025

History is set to be made this November as 50 Nigerian-Americans return to Lagos in a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming nostalgia into nation-building. Under the banner Diaspora Returns, the homecoming project was unveiled on 2nd September 2025 at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, sparking excitement across business, culture, and tourism circles.

But this is no ordinary visit. Unlike previous symbolic returns, this movement is rooted in a clear mission—investment, collaboration, and growth. The organisers, led by Strategic Solutions Global in partnership with Waterlight Save Initiative, East Point Atlanta Convention and Visitors Tourism Bureau, Palton Morgan Holdings, and Eko Hotel, want to make one point clear: the Nigerian diaspora is ready to do more than send money home. They are ready to build.

Nancy Aragbaye, Chief Executive of Strategic Solutions Global, set the tone at the launch. “This is bigger than tourism—it is a movement. We are reconnecting with Africa deliberately, to invest, to collaborate, and to reimagine global commerce through Nigeria. When Nigeria gets it right, Africa gets it right; and when Africa gets it right, the world gets it right.”

According to recent figures, Nigerians abroad send over $20 billion in remittances annually. But the organisers stressed that this moment is about more than transfers. “The diaspora is a critical driver of nation-building,” Aragbaye said. “Now we want to back startups, empower SMEs, and reimagine industries through a global lens.”

The November programme will not only see the returnees explore Nigeria’s vibrant cities, but also connect with local entrepreneurs, sit down with policymakers, and pursue joint ventures. The group includes high-profile professionals and investors from real estate, technology, fashion, and philanthropy. To give the journey global visibility, the reconnection experience will also be documented in a feature film showcasing Nigeria’s beauty, creativity, and business opportunities.

Eko Hotel’s Publicist, Ayodele Adio, described the event as another chance for Lagos to shine. “Hospitality today is more than comfort. It is about creating platforms where Nigeria can proudly stand before the world. Lagos has proven with Detty December and other global events that we can deliver experiences of international standards. Diaspora Returns will only amplify that story of resilience and brilliance.”

From across the Atlantic, Chantel Francois, President of the East Point Atlanta Convention and Visitors Tourism Bureau, noted the cultural and economic bridges already linking Atlanta and Lagos. With over 20,000 Nigerians living in Atlanta and direct daily flights between the two cities, she said, “tourism, culture, and business are now easier than ever to strengthen.”

The economic side of the project is equally bold. Waterlight Save Initiative announced plans to support 200 Nigerian small businesses with loans, while Palton Morgan Holdings pledged to provide credible platforms for diaspora capital in real estate and beyond. “This is not just an event, it is the start of a lifetime partnership,” said Palton Morgan’s Sales Director, Achuonye Vivian.

As November approaches, the excitement is undeniable. For many, this return signals more than a reunion with ancestral soil—it represents a rebirth of confidence, creativity, and commerce. And for Nigeria, it is a reminder that the diaspora is not just watching from afar. They are coming home, ready to build.

Stay updated with the latest news across Nigeria and beyond — visit RYNI News

For Event Coverage, Advert Placements, Article Publications.
Email: rynimedia@gmail.com
Contact Us on WhatsApp