Delta Governor's Aide Criticizes Diaspora Nigerians Over "Paltry" Financial Contributions

The Senior Special Assistant to Delta State Governor on Diaspora Affairs, Mrs. Esther Oge, has sparked controversy with her scathing remarks about Nigerians abroad who send what she described as "embarrassingly small amounts" to friends and family back home. 

The official's comments came during a diaspora engagement forum in Asaba, where she expressed disappointment at the financial practices of some overseas Nigerians.  

Oge specifically called out those who contribute "mere 20,000 or 50,000 naira" (approximately $12-$30) for major life events like weddings or funerals, questioning their commitment to community development. "How can someone working abroad send such laughable amounts when their people are struggling back home?" she asked the audience, which included local government officials and community leaders.  

The governor's aide contrasted these small personal transfers with the billions in diaspora remittances Nigeria receives annually, suggesting that funds should be channeled more strategically. "Instead of scattering 20k here and there, our diaspora should pool resources for impactful projects that benefit entire communities," Oge proposed, pointing to infrastructure initiatives in Delta's Isoko region funded by US-based professionals.  

Her comments have drawn mixed reactions across social media platforms. While some agree that diaspora Nigerians could be more strategic with their giving, others have defended small donors, noting that not all overseas workers earn high salaries. "Many abroad are barely surviving themselves," countered London-based nurse Amaka Okonkwo. "That 20k might represent real sacrifice."  

The Delta State Diaspora Office has since clarified that Oge's remarks were meant to encourage more structured giving rather than criticize individual circumstances. However, the controversy has reignited debates about expectations placed on Nigeria's global diaspora community and the complex economics of transnational family support.  

This incident comes as Nigeria's Central Bank reports a 15% decline in official diaspora remittances this quarter, with experts attributing the drop to global economic pressures and increased use of informal transfer channels.