Nigeria’s participation at the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) has been marked by a deliberate shift towards strategic diplomacy and high-level partnerships rather than superficial appearances at trade expos, as President Bola Tinubu led the country’s delegation in pursuit of concrete economic gains.
The triennial summit, hosted in Yokohama and Tokyo, brought together African leaders, Japanese officials, international organisations, and corporate executives to discuss Africa’s development agenda and Japan’s role as a key partner. For Nigeria, the focus was clear: deepen bilateral and multilateral engagements that drive transformation in critical sectors such as power, industry, and agriculture.
Addressing speculation on social media about Nigeria’s participation, government officials emphasised that the delegation was not in Japan to attend open trade exhibitions. Instead, Tinubu’s team, working closely with Corporate Nigeria and the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), is targeting investment opportunities, technology transfer, and partnerships that will deliver long-term value.
“We understand the patriotic concern of those questioning Nigeria’s role at TICAD, but it must be clear that our delegation came here for strategic engagements, not trade expos. The mission is to secure commitments that strengthen Nigeria’s economy,” a senior official noted.
During the summit, President Tinubu commended Nigeria’s Armed Forces for their resilience in safeguarding the nation despite daunting security challenges. He highlighted that peace and stability remain prerequisites for economic growth and international investment.
“We have learned that our brave armed forces can win many battles, but true stability comes when diversity and inclusivity are respected under the rule of law. Nigeria is committed to this vision, and we continue to fight for it today,” Tinubu stated.
In a significant development, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced a $5.5 billion pledge to support African development initiatives, ranging from infrastructure and climate resilience to peace and governance programmes. Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy, is expected to play a central role in harnessing this support for continental growth.
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Observers note that Nigeria’s approach at TICAD 9 reflects a broader recalibration of its foreign policy under President Tinubu—one that prioritises strategic economic diplomacy and positions Nigeria as a key driver of Africa-Japan relations.
The outcomes of TICAD 9 are expected to shape Nigeria’s trajectory in its quest for industrialisation, energy security, and sustainable development, with the government confident that its focused participation will yield tangible dividends beyond the conference halls of Tokyo and Yokohama.
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