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THE UNFIT NIGERIAN: Revising the role of Nigerian Diaspora in post-COVID-19 Nation Building By Johnson Mavalla It is no secret that the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has exposed the weaknesses of policies, systems and governments globally. There are Nigerians in almost every country on earth, with big communities in the United States, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Italy, Canada, China and many other countries. The Nigerian diaspora continues to grow rapidly. Due to their achievements in various disciplines, the remittance into Nigeria continues to be one of the highest in Africa.
and it continues to grow. The COVID-19 pandemic has sent waves of fear and uncertainty across all ages, backgrounds, nations, businesses, and systems. To the keen observer, it’s evident that COVID-19 is more than the health crisis it is flagged to be. The ripple impact of COVID-19 has stung economies, healthcare systems, the livelihood of millions across the globe. It also threatens disruption of democratic systems in countries with nascent democracies where the pandemic and fears have disrupted elections during this period of lockdown, ushering in the increased likelihood of violence and political instability. The pandemic has brought out the best and worst of Nigeria and Nigerians. We have seen decisive leadership in some states as well as questionable actions in some others, including tactless policies, recklessness and obtuse remarks made. Many have also been inspired by the courage and sacrifices of our heroic healthcare workers. However, there were also those who capitalised on the lockdown to rob their fellow countrymen. As the lockdown starts to ease globally, and as Nigeria begins her long journey to ‘normalcy’, the true impact of this pandemic will gradually become clearer. The adverse impact on the economy will be felt by Nigerian families and will be worse still for the vulnerable ones long after the lockdowns and curfews are lifted. The pinch will be felt, and the pinch will be real. Governments will be left with no choice but to explore creative ways of increasing revenue. For example, Sadiq Khan, the London Mayor, recently increased the congestion charge to drive into London to£15 (N8,250 - abokiFX). Nigeria, like every country, would have to explore options to set the economy on course. The government’s handling of the pandemic is a discourse for another time.
Their role and importance to their country of origin cannot be ignored in areas of human development, democracy, peacebuilding, and economic development. The PWC Strength from Abroad 2019 report reveals that, Nigerian “...migrant remittances translate to 83% of the Federal Government budget”
While the role of Nigerians in the diaspora cannot be overemphasised, there have been sentiments (read about the brain drain syndrome) that their migration suddenly strips them of their ‘Nigerian-ness’, thereby declaring them unfit, so to speak. I believe Nigerians abroad hold very patriotic ties to the motherland and we have a significant role to play in nation-building.
