Mr. Franklin Nechi, Chairman of Optiva Capital Partners, has dismissed fears that rising migration among Nigerians represents capital flight, arguing instead that global mobility strengthens economic growth and domestic resilience.
Speaking in Lagos, Nechi explained that the increasing interest in residency and second citizenship is largely motivated by the search for better opportunities, quality healthcare, and stable education, rather than an attempt to drain national resources.
“The world is now a global village. Business is no longer local. Nigerians are competing globally, and they must position themselves accordingly,” he said.
Nechi highlighted the significant role of remittances from Nigerians abroad, noting that funds often return home through property acquisition, enterprise development, and family support. These inflows, he argued, expand the domestic economic base rather than weaken it.
He advised families to view global mobility as part of strategic wealth planning, emphasizing compliance, early preparation, and diversification. “The winners are not the fastest movers, but the most prepared,” Nechi said.
While acknowledging concerns about brain drain, he maintained that structured migration enhances human capital, increases foreign exchange inflows, and improves global competitiveness. Nechi also urged policymakers to strengthen healthcare, education, and economic stability to naturally reduce outward pressures.
“Global mobility is not capital flight. It is capital expansion for individuals and for the nation,” he concluded.
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