President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians living abroad to pool their knowledge and resources for the country’s progress. He emphasized that collective effort is key to building a stronger and wealthier nation.
On the sidelines of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development, Tinubu met with Nigerian community members in Yokohama, Japan. He highlighted the achievements and reforms of his administration, including improvements in passport issuance, economic stability, and healthcare.
“I am happy to listen to you. I’m happy to report that many of our people are returning home. Yes, for economic reasons, some might decide to stay away; it’s their fundamental right. But for the economic growth and opportunities available in Nigeria, don’t stay away. Your contribution is essential. If you stay away, who will build it?” the President remarked.
Tinubu reassured the audience that Nigeria is “on the rise again,” emphasizing that effective leadership fosters unity and progress by blending innovative ideas with practical solutions. He reminded Nigerians abroad that true citizenship requires character, commitment, and a positive representation of Nigeria overseas.
“If we don’t join hands and work together, then we’ve lost the hope of being the leaders we are supposed to be,” Tinubu warned.
He also urged government officials to communicate measures that will create opportunities, enhance competitiveness, and attract investment.
Emeka Ebogota, president of the Nigerian Union in Japan, thanked President Tinubu for addressing them. He affirmed that the administration’s efforts to realign Nigeria have the full support of the union’s members.
The event also attracted businesspeople, doctors, and students, as well as Mr. Kingsley Kabuyashi, an investor and entrepreneur, and John Ologbotsere, a Japanese national prize winner for electrotechnical standardization.
Other distinguished attendees included Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs; Mrs. Florence Akinyemi Adeseke, the Charge d’Affaires; Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals; Abubakar Momoh, the Minister of Regional Development; Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Science and Technology; Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of Budget; Doris Uzoka-Anite, the Minister of State for Finance; Ambassador Mohammed, Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency; and key figures from the private sector.
