NiDCOM, First Bank Launch Platform to Ease Property Access for Nigerians in Diaspora

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), in collaboration with First Bank, has unveiled a new platform, Diaspora Home and Abroad to facilitate seamless housing investments for Nigerians living overseas.
The platform, announced on Friday, aims to eliminate fraud in property transactions and boost confidence in Nigeria’s real estate sector among the diaspora community.
Speaking at the launch, NiDCOM Chairperson Abike Dabiri-Erewa highlighted the initiative as a vital step toward leveraging the economic power of Nigerians abroad.
“The platform directly addresses the frustrations many in the diaspora face when trying to invest in property back home. With this, they can now access safe, reliable, and credible housing opportunities,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank Group, Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu represented by the Head of Brand Strategy and Financial Planning, Ms. Abimbola Meshinoye acknowledged the massive economic impact of the diaspora, which contributes over $20 billion annually in remittances.
“The diaspora’s role in shaping our global reputation and fostering socio-economic ties cannot be overstated,” Alebiosu noted.
Abdulrahman Terab, NiDCOM’s Head of Technology, Transfer, Innovation, and Investment, stressed that the platform addresses a major pain point for the diaspora: housing scams.
“Many have lost hard-earned money to fraudulent property deals. This platform will change that narrative and build trust in our systems,” he stated.
With over 70 million Nigerians living abroad, stakeholders believe the platform will significantly increase diaspora-driven investments and help bolster the national economy.
Terab further described Nigeria as a top destination for African diaspora investment, ahead of countries like Ghana and Senegal.
The partnership marks a strategic move to formalize diaspora engagement in real estate, ensuring a secure and efficient investment process back home.