Global Mobility Boosts Nigeria’s Economy, Not Capital Flight — Optiva Capital Chairman

The rising trend of Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad is fueling economic growth rather than draining national resources, according to Mr. Franklin Nechi, Chairman of Optiva Capital Partners. Speaking in Lagos during a media briefing, Nechi dismissed claims that migration is synonymous with capital flight, arguing instead that global mobility strengthens domestic economic resilience.

Nechi highlighted that the growing demand for second citizenship and international residency is motivated largely by the pursuit of better job opportunities, quality healthcare, and stable education, rather than the extraction of wealth from Nigeria. “The world is now a global village. Business is no longer local. Nigerians are competing globally, and they must position themselves accordingly,” he said.

He emphasized the vital role of remittances in sustaining the Nigerian economy. Funds sent home by Nigerians abroad provide lifelines to families and support local investments in housing, education, and small businesses. According to Nechi, these financial flows often return in the form of property acquisitions, entrepreneurial ventures, and family support, which expands rather than diminishes the country’s economic base.

Nechi urged families and individuals to view global mobility as an essential part of long-term wealth planning. With increasing visa restrictions and scrutiny of applicants worldwide, he advised, “Start early, stay compliant and diversify access. The winners are not the fastest movers, but the most prepared.” He also called on policymakers to strengthen local institutions, noting that improvements in healthcare, education, and economic stability could naturally reduce outward migration pressures.

While acknowledging the potential risks of brain drain, Nechi maintained that structured migration can enhance human capital, boost foreign exchange inflows, and improve Nigeria’s competitiveness on the global stage. “Global mobility is not capital flight. It is capital expansion — for individuals and for the nation,” he concluded, framing migration as an opportunity rather than a threat.

source: vanguard