Renowned Legal Practitioner, Smart I. Nwobi, Advocates Diaspora Voting Rights and Calls for End to Migrant Harassment in South Africa.

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | SaharaWeeklyNG.com

The Nigerian diaspora is often referred to as the country’s “seventh geopolitical zone,” a community of millions scattered across the globe whose remittances, knowledge and influence remain a lifeline to the nation’s economy. Yet, despite their contributions, Nigerians abroad continue to be excluded from electoral participation and often find themselves at the mercy of hostile immigration policies in foreign lands. At a recent gathering of the National Association of Nigerian Students in Diaspora (NANS-D), one of the country’s most respected voices in law and advocacy, Smart I. Nwobi, brought these issues into sharp focus.

Delivering a keynote address on behalf of the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA), Nwobi urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to take bold steps towards granting diaspora voting rights and to work closely with African governments (especially South Africa) to end the harassment of migrants. His address, delivered with conviction and clarity, was not just a call for reform, but a blueprint for how Nigeria could finally turn its global citizens into an asset rather than an afterthought.

Diaspora Voting: An Unfinished Democratic Business. For decades, Nigerian leaders have spoken glowingly of the diaspora’s impact, yet have done little to integrate them into the political framework. According to the World Bank, Nigeria received over $20.1 billion in diaspora remittances in 2023, making it the highest in Africa and one of the top ten globally. These funds have been pivotal in stabilizing households, supporting education and boosting small businesses. Beyond financial contributions, Nwobi argued that Nigerians abroad hold expertise in critical sectors (medicine, technology, law and governance) that could be harnessed for national development.

“Democracy cannot be complete if millions of its citizens are locked out of participation simply because they live beyond the nation’s borders,” Nwobi said. His position echoes practices in countries such as Ghana, Kenya and South Africa, all of which allow diaspora voting. Globally, nations like France, Italy and Portugal even reserve parliamentary seats for their citizens abroad, recognizing their unique perspectives and roles in shaping policy.

For Nigeria, Nwobi suggested that diaspora voting rights should not be symbolic, but practical; accompanied by parliamentary representation that ensures global citizens are involved in shaping the laws and policies that affect them. This, he argued, would not only deepen democracy but also restore confidence among diasporans who feel politically abandoned.

The Plague of Migrant Harassment in South Africa. Nwobi’s speech also touched on one of the most pressing challenges faced by Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa, the wave of hostility fueled by anti-migrant groups like Operation Dudula. Over the past decade, South Africa has witnessed periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence, often directed at Nigerians, Zimbabweans, Malawians and other African nationals accused of “TAKING JOBS” or “OVER BURDENING SERVICES.”

“South Africa and Nigeria must rise above the destructive politics of division,” Nwobi declared. “We cannot afford to watch Africans turn against each other when the rest of the world sees us as one.”

His message resonated with historical weight. Both Nigeria and South Africa played pivotal roles in the liberation of Africa from colonialism and apartheid. Nigeria, for instance, was instrumental in funding the African National Congress (ANC) during the anti-apartheid struggle. Today, however, relations between citizens of the two nations are increasingly strained by violence, stereotypes and political rhetoric.

By calling for stronger leadership from Abuja and Pretoria, Nwobi underscored the need for African unity as a prerequisite for continental growth. He stressed that harassment of migrants not only undermines human rights but also stifles the free movement of skills and talent; factors critical for Africa’s integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

From Brain Drain to Brain Gain. One of the most compelling aspects of Nwobi’s presentation was his insistence that the diaspora should be seen not as a “LOST GENERATION” but as a reservoir of talent waiting to be tapped. He unveiled four strategic initiatives designed to shift Nigeria’s perception of its citizens abroad:

A Diaspora Think Tank Hub – a central platform for consolidating expertise from Nigerian professionals worldwide, offering advisory services to government and industry.

Soft-landing platforms for returnees – structures that make reintegration smoother for diasporans willing to return home, including housing schemes, job placement programs, and tax incentives.

Diaspora voting rights with parliamentary representation – not just giving a vote but also a voice in legislative processes.

Policy inclusion for diaspora contributions – formally integrating diaspora remittances and investments into national economic planning.

According to him, these steps would ensure that the enormous contributions of Nigerians abroad (financial, intellectual and cultural) are not wasted but directed toward national growth.

A Message of Unity and Responsibility. Nwobi also used his platform to caution against division within diaspora organizations themselves. Too often, he argued, political rivalries and domestic tensions spill into the diaspora, undermining their collective strength. He called on Nigerian ambassadors, student leaders, and community stakeholders to prioritize empowerment, cohesion and unity over partisan divides.

“Together, we rise. United, we thrive,” he concluded. “With a shared vision and a collective spirit, we will build a stronger, better, and more united front for ourselves and for generations to come.”

His words carried both optimism and urgency, reminding listeners that diaspora advocacy is not just about convenience but about survival and dignity.

Recognition of Leadership. At the event, Smart I. Nwobi was honoured with a special award of recognition for his bold advocacy, steadfast leadership and dedication to uniting Nigerians abroad. The award served as both an acknowledgment of his past contributions and a challenge to continue leading the charge for diaspora empowerment.

Global Lessons for Nigeria. Nwobi’s advocacy finds echoes in global best practices. Countries such as India and Israel have long leveraged their diasporas as engines of innovation and investment. The Indian diaspora, for example, played a crucial role in the rise of its IT sector, while Israel has benefited immensely from the expertise and capital of Jews abroad.

For Nigeria, which faces persistent challenges of governance, insecurity, and economic instability, the diaspora could be the key to reversing decades of underdevelopment. With millions of Nigerians living and working across North America, Europe, Asia and Africa, the potential to create a powerful network of influence is immense.

Final Take: A Call to Action. Smart I. Nwobi’s call at the NANS-D event is more than a Speech, it is a manifesto for change. By demanding diaspora voting rights, parliamentary inclusion and an end to migrant harassment, he has placed the Nigerian diaspora at the center of the national conversation. His proposals are not utopian but practical, rooted in global examples and grounded in Nigeria’s realities.

If Nigeria heeds his call, it could transform its diaspora from a loosely connected group of remittance senders into a structured force for political and economic development. If South Africa responds, it could ease tensions and set a continental example for migrant inclusion.

If both nations ignore these urgent appeals, they risk deepening divisions, missing opportunities and alienating millions of Africans whose contributions are indispensable.

As the applause that followed his keynote suggested, the diaspora is ready to play its part. The question is whether Nigeria and South Africa are ready to listen.

Renowned Legal Practitioner, Smart I. Nwobi, Advocates Diaspora Voting Rights and Calls for End to Migrant Harassment in South Africa.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | SaharaWeeklyNG.com

K1 De Ultimate Inspires Wasiu Haruna Ishola L1’s Upcoming Album Masterpiece

Fuji and Apala fans are in for a treat as contemporary Apala-Fuji star, Wasiu Haruna Ishola L1, prepares to release his highly anticipated double album, Masterpiece, in Lagos this November. Supported by Big Bodeyy Promotions, the launch is scheduled for the second week of the month.

The album offers two distinct listening experiences — one side rooted in Fuji rhythms and the other in pure, original Apala music — giving audiences a fresh yet authentic take on indigenous Nigerian sounds.

Popularly known as Lagunja 1, Wasiu Haruna Ishola is the son of late Apala legend Haruna Ishola Bello and brother to renowned musician Musiliu Babatunde Haruna Ishola. With Masterpiece, he both honours his lineage and recognises the influence of his mentor, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde K1 De Ultimate, whose artistry helped shape his approach to music.

“This album is both a tribute to tradition and a bold step into the future,” Lagunja 1 said. “It is dedicated to my late father and to my mentor, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde K1 De Ultimate, while embracing digital innovation.”

He stressed that Nigerian musicians must embrace global advancements to rejuvenate audience tastes:

“We have to explore more, acquire new knowledge and take advantage of the ever-evolving digital world,” he added.

With its seamless blend of heritage and modern artistry — and inspired by K1 De Ultimate’s groundbreaking style — Masterpiece is positioned to be one of the standout Nigerian music releases of the year.

Why Real Estate Is Still the Safest Investment in Nigeria

By Dennis Isong

When Kunle moved back to Nigeria after years of working abroad, he was torn between several investment choices. Friends encouraged him to put money into a new tech startup, others insisted on cryptocurrency, while his uncle swore by trading foreign exchange. But Kunle remembered how his father’s only surviving investment—two plots of land in Lagos bought in the 1980s—had multiplied in value far beyond any bank deposit or business venture. That realization shaped his decision, and today, he doesn’t regret it.

This simple story reflects a truth many Nigerians already know but sometimes forget: real estate remains one of the most dependable ways to grow and preserve wealth. The question is why. Let us explore why real estate is still the safest investment in Nigeria, breaking it down into key aspects that make property ownership a timeless choice, regardless of the economic climate.

Land Never Disappears, It Only Appreciates

One of the most unique qualities of real estate is permanence. Unlike businesses that can collapse overnight or digital investments that can vanish with a market crash, land and property are tangible assets. No matter what happens in Nigeria’s economy, land will remain.

In Lagos, for example, areas once regarded as “far” or “undeveloped” have now transformed into prime real estate. Take Lekki as a case study: two decades ago, land there was sold for peanuts compared to today. Those who bought early are now enjoying values that have multiplied many times over.

Markets can indeed slow down, and not every area appreciates at the same rate, but the overall trend has always favored real estate. Property prices may fluctuate in the short term, but in the long run, they continue to rise—making land one of the most stable wealth-building tools in Nigeria.

Protection Against Inflation and Currency Fluctuations

Nigeria’s economy has its fair share of ups and downs. Inflation eats into savings, and the naira’s value against the dollar continues to fall. In times like these, people who keep their money in bank accounts often watch its purchasing power weaken.

But real estate provides a shield. A piece of land bought today will not lose value simply because the naira drops tomorrow. Instead, as the prices of goods and services rise, so does the value of property.

This is why many Nigerians in the diaspora who earn in dollars or pounds prefer to secure land or houses back home. It ensures that their money is converted into something lasting—an asset that grows in value, regardless of the exchange rate. Even within Nigeria, families that invested in properties decades ago now realize that those assets have become their strongest defense against inflation.

Unlike cars or gadgets that depreciate over time, houses and land appreciate, ensuring that wealth is not just protected but multiplied.

Real Estate Provides Tangible Security and Legacy

Another reason why real estate is the safest investment in Nigeria lies in its physical presence. You can touch it, live in it, rent it out, or pass it on to your children. In a country where trust in financial systems can be shaky, people find comfort in owning something they can see and control.

Families often rely on real estate as a form of inheritance. A father may not leave millions in cash, but a plot of land in Lagos or a block of flats in Ibadan can sustain generations. Beyond legacy, real estate provides immediate personal security. Having a home of your own shields you from the uncertainty of rising rent prices or sudden eviction notices.

For landlords, rental income creates a steady cash flow that supports daily needs and future investments. This combination of financial returns and peace of mind explains why Nigerians view property ownership not just as an investment but as a necessity.

Flexibility of Use and Wealth Creation Opportunities

One thing that sets real estate apart from other investments is its flexibility. A single property can serve multiple purposes over time. A plot of land in Lagos could begin as farmland, later converted into residential housing, and eventually developed into commercial spaces like shopping complexes or warehouses.

This adaptability ensures that investors are never stuck with one rigid outcome. For instance, an individual who builds rental apartments enjoys a regular income. If the area grows in commercial value, that same property could be converted into office spaces or shops.

Nigerians are creative when it comes to land use—turning properties into Airbnb apartments, student hostels in university towns, or commercial buildings. This dynamic nature makes real estate safer because even if one income stream slows down, another can be developed from the same asset.

Consistent Demand Driven by Nigeria’s Growing Population

Nigeria’s population is not slowing down. With over 200 million people and projections to become one of the most populous countries in the world, the demand for housing will always remain high. Cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt continue to expand as more people migrate in search of opportunities.

This growth translates into a constant need for land and housing. Developers can barely keep up with demand, and rental prices keep climbing in urban centers. For investors, this means there will always be a market for real estate.

Unlike some investments that depend on trends or hype, property ownership is tied to a basic human need—shelter. As long as people need a place to live, real estate will remain relevant and profitable.

Conclusion

Kunle’s decision to choose real estate over flashy investments turned out to be wise. His story mirrors the experience of countless Nigerians who have discovered that while quick-money ventures come and go, property remains steady.

The permanence of land, its protection against inflation, its role as tangible security and legacy, its flexibility for wealth creation, and the ever-growing population demanding housing—all explain why real estate continues to be the safest and most reliable investment in Nigeria.

For anyone thinking about securing their financial future—whether you are based in Nigeria or living abroad—real estate should not just be an option; it should be a priority.

👉 And if you are looking for a trusted guide in this journey, remember that Dennis Isong is a TOP REALTOR IN LAGOS who helps Nigerians in the diaspora own property in Lagos stress-free.

📞 For inquiries, WhatsApp or call: +234 816 474 1041