The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has expressed concerns over a directive issued by the Central Bank of The Gambia, ordering banks to replace non-Gambian workers with Gambians. This move is expected to affect 57 Nigerian professionals working in the country. NiDCOM Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the directive as worrying, saying it threatens the jobs of these Nigerian professionals.
According to NiDCOM, the affected Nigerians work in four Nigerian-owned banks and have valid residence and work permits. These banks play a significant role in The Gambia's economy, controlling 37.2 per cent of the country's total bank deposits, valued at 35.3 billion Gambian dalasis, and 32.6 per cent of loans worth 7.67 billion dalasis. The commission acknowledged The Gambia's right to create jobs for its citizens but emphasized that the policy should respect existing employment contracts and valid work permits.
NiDCOM also highlighted the contradiction in African countries encouraging investment and regional cooperation while forcing qualified African professionals out of their jobs. The commission urged the Central Bank of The Gambia to withdraw the directive and engage in discussions with the Nigerian High Commission in Banjul and other stakeholders to find a peaceful solution. This approach, NiDCOM believes, will help maintain the long-standing friendly relations between Nigeria and The Gambia.
The Central Bank of The Gambia had given banks until December 31, 2026, to replace all foreign workers with Gambians. NiDCOM emphasized the need for Gambian authorities to respect the principles of ECOWAS integration. The commission's spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, issued a statement reiterating NiDCOM's opposition to the directive and calling for a peaceful resolution.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission's opposition to the directive is based on its mandate to protect the interests of Nigerians living abroad. NiDCOM's efforts aim to ensure that Nigerians in The Gambia are not unfairly treated and that their rights are respected. The commission's involvement in this matter demonstrates its commitment to supporting Nigerians in diaspora.
The Gambia and Nigeria have a long history of cooperation, and NiDCOM's call for dialogue reflects the desire to maintain and strengthen these relations. The commission's statement emphasized the importance of finding a peaceful solution that respects the rights of all parties involved. This approach is expected to promote understanding and cooperation between Nigeria and The Gambia.
The outcome of NiDCOM's engagement with the Central Bank of The Gambia and other stakeholders remains to be seen. However, the commission's proactive approach in addressing this issue demonstrates its dedication to protecting the interests of Nigerians abroad. The situation will continue to be monitored, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Key points
- NiDCOM opposes Central Bank of The Gambia's directive to replace non-Gambian workers with Gambians.
- The directive affects 57 Nigerian professionals working in four Nigerian-owned banks in The Gambia.
- NiDCOM urges Central Bank of The Gambia to withdraw directive and engage in dialogue with stakeholders.
