President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians in the diaspora to remain connected to their homeland, stressing that their expertise, resources, and networks are vital to national development.
The President made the appeal on Thursday at an interactive session with Nigerians in Japan, held at the Kahala Hotel in Yokohama, on the sidelines of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9).
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, in a statement, disclosed that the engagement brought together professionals, entrepreneurs, and students across various fields. Tinubu described the gathering as “a vibrant representation of Nigeria’s diversity,” expressing delight at their commitment to the nation.
Reaffirming his administration’s economic reform agenda, the President declared that Nigeria is “back on the rise,” driven by strategic thinking and decisive action. He cited improvements in passport processing and healthcare upgrades as part of ongoing efforts to deliver quality services at home and reduce the pressure of medical tourism.
Tinubu maintained that development is a shared responsibility, urging diaspora Nigerians to serve as ambassadors by promoting the country positively in global engagements. “If we don’t join hands and work together, then we’ve lost the hope of being the leaders we are supposed to be,” he cautioned.
To deepen reforms, the President invited Sen. John Enoh, Minister of State for Industry, and Mr. Khalil Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, to brief the audience on government initiatives. Oando CEO, Mr. Wale Tinubu, also highlighted how reforms are strengthening Nigeria’s business environment and attracting investments.
Several attendees expressed support for the government’s policies. Mr. Emeka Ebogota, President of the Nigerian Union in Japan, thanked the President for directly engaging the diaspora community and pledged his members’ support in repositioning Nigeria for greater global relevance.
Notable participants included electrotechnical standardisation award-winner John Ologbotsere, entrepreneur Kingsley Kabuyashi, alongside students, doctors, and business leaders. Top government officials present were Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, Solid Minerals Minister Dele Alake, Budget Minister Atiku Bagudu, Minister of State for Finance Doris Uzoka-Anite, and NIA Director-General Amb. Mohammed Mohammed.
Tinubu reassured Nigerians abroad that economic fundamentals have been stabilised, reforms are ongoing to create jobs, and opportunities are opening for those willing to return.
“I’m happy to listen to you. I’m happy to report many of our people are returning home,” he said.