Yokohama, Japan – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians in the Diaspora to play a more active role in shaping the nation’s progress, stressing that their expertise, resources, and global influence are vital to building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
The President made the call on Thursday during an interactive session with select members of the Nigerian community in Japan at the Kahala Hotel and Resort, Yokohama, on the sidelines of the ongoing Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9).
Addressing professionals and entrepreneurs across diverse fields, President Tinubu outlined his administration’s economic reforms and development priorities, assuring them that Nigeria is on a steady path to stability and growth.
“I am happy to listen to you. I am happy to report that many of our people are returning home. Yes, for economic reasons, some people might decide to stay away; it’s a fundamental right of the individual. But for the economic growth and opportunities available in Nigeria, don’t stay away. Your contribution is very much needed. If you stay away, who will build it?” Tinubu asked.
He emphasised that national development cannot be left to the government alone but requires shared responsibility between citizens at home and Nigerians abroad. He urged the Diaspora to be ambassadors of Nigeria, projecting the country positively in their engagements.
The President also highlighted progress in key sectors, including improvements in passport issuance for Nigerians abroad, reforms in the financial sector that have attracted investment and expanded the stock market, and efforts to upgrade healthcare infrastructure to reduce medical tourism.
Reiterating that leadership is about “thinking and doing,” Tinubu noted that his government is committed to creating an environment where every Nigerian feels the impact of positive change.
The event also featured presentations from government officials, including the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, and NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, who spoke on the administration’s economic programmes. Wale Tinubu provided further insights on how reforms have strengthened business competitiveness.
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Members of the Nigerian community in Japan welcomed the President’s message, pledging their support and readiness to contribute to the nation’s transformation. Mr. Emeka Ebogota, President of the Nigerian Union in Japan, thanked Tinubu for engaging directly with them and reaffirmed their commitment to Nigeria’s progress.
The meeting was attended by top government officials, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake, Minister of Budget Atiku Bagudu, and other cabinet members, as well as private sector leaders.
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