President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians in the Diaspora to return home, emphasizing that Nigeria is “on the rise again” under his leadership. Moreover, he stressed that the nation urgently needs the skills and resources of its citizens abroad to accelerate development.
The call came during an interactive session with the Nigerian community in Yokohama, Japan, on the sidelines of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9). Consequently, the event served as a platform for direct engagement between Tinubu and Nigerians overseas.
National Development Requires Collective Effort
Tinubu explained that development cannot rest solely on government. Instead, it must be a shared responsibility between citizens living in Nigeria and those abroad. Furthermore, he reminded his audience that true citizenship goes beyond holding a passport; it involves character, loyalty, and positive representation of the nation.
“Some people may choose to remain overseas, but for Nigeria to grow, we must all contribute,” Tinubu declared. In addition, he cautioned that negative portrayals of the country discourage much-needed investments and partnerships.
Reforms and Opportunities at Home
Highlighting reforms, the President outlined improvements in several areas. First, he pointed to faster passport processing systems, which have reduced delays for citizens. Second, he mentioned economic stabilization policies, including fiscal adjustments, designed to strengthen investor confidence.
Moreover, he highlighted ongoing healthcare investments aimed at reversing medical tourism. In addition, government programs are expanding business opportunities, attracting foreign capital, and boosting the Nigerian stock market. As a result, returning citizens will find a more enabling environment for entrepreneurship and innovation.
“Leadership is about vision and action,” Tinubu said. “Therefore, we are combining bold ideas with concrete measures to ensure unity, stability, and growth. Indeed, Nigeria is on the rise again.”
Diaspora Leaders Express Support
Members of the Nigerian community in Japan welcomed the President’s message warmly. Professionals, entrepreneurs, and students expressed readiness to support reforms. Moreover, they pledged to explore practical ways of contributing to national progress.
Emeka Ebogota, President of the Nigerian Union in Japan, thanked Tinubu for engaging with them directly. Furthermore, he pledged the Union’s continued support for the government’s transformation agenda.
Officials and Stakeholders Present
The session drew top government officials and private sector leaders. Among them were Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, Solid Minerals Minister Dele Alake, Budget Minister Atiku Bagudu, and Finance Minister of State Doris Uzoka-Anite. Additionally, the Ministers of Regional Development and Science and Technology were in attendance.
