Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigeria Diaspora Voting Council (NDVC) has proudly unveiled the revised Diaspora Voting Bill, a key milestone in advocating for the voting rights of Nigerians abroad. The bill was crafted by a team of expert constitutional lawyers led by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and reflects NDVC’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the inclusion of Nigerians living overseas in the country’s democratic processes.

The revised bill follows an earlier version that made history during the ninth assembly, where it became the first Diaspora Voting Bill to pass the third reading at the Nigeria National Assembly (NASS). This was a groundbreaking moment for Nigerians in the Diaspora, marking the recognition of the importance of their contribution to the country’s political future. The updated bill, presented ahead of the tenth assembly, holds the promise of even more transformative progress as Nigeria seeks to amend its constitution to include provisions for Diaspora voting.

Why Diaspora Voting Matters
With over 17 million Nigerians living abroad, the need for Diaspora voting rights is crucial to ensure that these citizens have a voice in shaping the country’s future. The remittances sent by the Diaspora account for billions of dollars annually, playing a significant role in Nigeria’s economy, yet this group has been excluded from the electoral process. Allowing Nigerians abroad to vote would not only enhance democratic representation but also strengthen national unity by recognising the contributions of Nigerians globally.

NDVC Chairman, Prince Ade Omole, who served as the Diaspora Campaign Director for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has been instrumental in advocating for this cause. His efforts, which included extensive consultations and presentations, led to the inclusion of Diaspora voting in the President’s action plan and manifesto (Page 72). This commitment aims to ensure that Nigerians abroad are actively represented in Nigeria’s political landscape, from voting in presidential and parliamentary elections to influencing key policy decisions. Other stakeholders mobilising includes NIDO, Prof Issa, Hon Akeem, Cmrd Uche, Ambassador Alistair among others.

Next Steps
The NDVC leadership, under Prince Omole’s guidance, is scheduled to meet with NASS to further push for the adoption of the revised bill. The organization remains committed to working closely with legislators, stakeholders, and the Nigerian Diaspora to realize this long-overdue right.

As the momentum builds, NDVC urges all Nigerians in the Diaspora to join the advocacy, ensuring that their voices are heard and that they become full participants in Nigeria’s democratic process.

For a copy of the revised Diaspora Voting bill, please provide the following details: a. Full Name
b. Email Address
c. WhatsApp Number
d. Country of Residence

Contact:
Tolu Oluwatuyi Esq.
Executive Secretary, Nigeria Diaspora Voting Council (NDVC)
+44 7366 563222 (WhatsApp Only)

The passage of the Diaspora Voting Bill will mark a significant step toward greater inclusivity and representation in Nigeria’s democracy. For Nigerians abroad, the right to vote is not just about political participation but about being fully recognised as key stakeholders in the country’s future.