NiDCOM Raises Alarm Over Gambia’s Order To Replace Foreign Bank Workers

ABUJA, NIGERIA — The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has expressed deep concern over a restrictive directive issued by the Central Bank of Gambia (CBG) that mandates the replacement of non-Gambian bank workers with local nationals by December 31, 2026.

The directive, originally issued on September 16, 2026, could lead to the displacement of 57 Nigerian professionals currently working in the Gambian financial sector.

According to NiDCOM, these individuals hold valid residency and work permits and have contributed significantly to the host country’s economy.

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, described the policy as “deeply worrisome.” While acknowledging Gambia’s right to promote local employment, she emphasized that such measures must respect existing employment contracts and regional integration principles.

The dispute highlights the immense economic footprint of Nigerian financial institutions in Gambia.

The four Nigerian-origin banks operating in the country collectively command:

• 37.2% of total banking industry deposits (GMD 35.3 billion)

• 32.6% of industry loans (GMD 7.67 billion)

• 37% of total banking assets (GMD 44.78 billion)

• 34.5% of investments in Central Bank bonds

Furthermore, these institutions reportedly provide 90% of the funding for Gambia’s National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC).

NiDCOM argued that the blanket policy directly contradicts the spirit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which champions regional economic cooperation and the free movement of people.

The Commission has called on the Central Bank of Gambia to immediately reverse the blanket directive and enter constructive diplomatic engagements with the Nigerian High Commission in Banjul, affected financial institutions, and relevant stakeholders to reach an equitable resolution.