The recent deportation of illegal immigrants from the United States, spearheaded by President Donald Trump’s policies, is a stark reminder that no matter how secure life may seem abroad, home remains irreplaceable.
For the Igbos in the diaspora, particularly in the U.S., this should be seen as a wake-up call to reconnect with their roots by investing and building their futures at home. The “Akurulo” (wealth returns home) mantra is not just a cultural obligation but a survival strategy for the Igbo people.
Trump’s actions underscore an uncomfortable truth: abroad is not home. For Igbos living overseas, whether as legal or illegal immigrants, the recent crackdowns highlight the precarious nature of depending on foreign lands for security and stability.
While living abroad may offer opportunities, it can never provide the sense of permanence and belonging that comes with building a foundation at home. This is why every Igbo person in the diaspora must heed this warning and start repatriating their resources to invest in Nigeria, particularly in the South-East.
The safety of investments at home is a critical factor to consider. While uncertainties abroad can lead to displacement or loss of assets, investments at home are far less vulnerable to such risks. A home-based investment ensures continuity, ownership, and a lasting legacy. Beyond securing their financial futures, Igbos who invest at home contribute to the economic development of their communities, creating jobs and fostering growth.
Trump’s immigration policies, though harsh, are a blessing in disguise. They serve as a clarion call for Nigerians abroad to reassess their priorities.
For the Igbos, who contribute significantly to Nigeria’s $10 billion annual diaspora remittances, it is time to channel these funds into meaningful ventures back home. With Igbos accounting for over 60% of these remittances, the potential to transform the South-East zone through strategic investments is immense.
However, for these investments to flourish, governments in the South-East States must step up to the plate. The persistent insecurity in the region has deterred many potential investors. It is imperative for state governments to prioritize security and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
Addressing issues such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and political instability will restore confidence and attract diaspora investments.
Also, investing at home is not merely a financial decision but a cultural and emotional one. For centuries, the Igbo people have upheld the tradition of returning home to build. This cultural ethos has sustained communities and preserved identities. By investing in real estate, businesses, and industries in their hometowns, Igbos abroad can ensure that their cultural heritage remains vibrant and intact.
The economic impact of such investments cannot be overstated. With a collective focus on developing infrastructure, industries, and education in the South-East, the region could emerge as an economic powerhouse. This would not only create wealth but also reduce the reliance on the federal government monthly allocation and foster self-sufficiency.
The era of seeking freedom and prosperity solely in foreign lands is over. As global immigration policies tighten and xenophobia rises, it has become evident that true security and prosperity can only be found at home. For Igbos abroad, this is a moment of introspection—a time to consider the legacy they want to leave for future generations.
In conclusion, the need for a concerted effort to reinvest in the South-East cannot be overemphasized. Governments must act decisively to improve security and create opportunities, while Igbos abroad must embrace the Akurulo philosophy and redirect their wealth homeward. The future of the Igbo nation lies not in foreign lands but in the collective strength of its people at home. Let Trump’s policies be a turning point, a call to action, and a rallying cry for Igbos in the diaspora to build the homeland of their dreams.
