Tinubu to Nigerians in Diaspora: ‘Nigeria’s rise has begun—come and be part of it’

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria’s long-anticipated economic resurgence is now underway, calling on Nigerians in the Diaspora to contribute to the country’s transformation rather than remain on the sidelines.

Speaking on Thursday during an interactive session with members of the Nigerian community in Japan, held on the margins of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), the President said his administration’s bold reforms are already stabilising the economy, unlocking opportunities, and restoring global confidence in the country.

“All I want to do is assure you that things are stable, the economy is on track, and opportunities are immense. Many of our people are coming back home. We are reversing the medical tourism trend and repositioning our institutions. Your contributions are very much needed if you stay away, who will build Nigeria?” Tinubu said to loud applause.

The President emphasised that while living abroad is a personal right, national progress requires collective effort. He urged Nigerians abroad to project a positive image of the country, warning that negative narratives only undermine efforts to attract investment and development.

Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, John Enoh, who also addressed the gathering, underscored the administration’s economic agenda. He noted that since Tinubu assumed office, significant policy reforms praised by global institutions such as the World Trade Organisation have laid a strong foundation for sustainable growth.

Khalil Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), reported that Nigeria is experiencing accelerated technology transfer as a result of these policies. According to him, more than 1,000 global applications have been received for investment partnerships in Nigeria’s technology and industrial sectors, with over $2 billion already committed, including factory projects to be developed with Japanese firms.

From the private sector, Wale Tinubu, Group Chief Executive Officer of Oando Plc, lauded the administration’s decision to remove fuel subsidies and liberalise the exchange rate, noting that these steps have increased government revenues, attracted foreign investment, and spurred activity in key industries from oil and gas to mining and telecommunications. “We’ve never experienced this level of closeness and responsiveness from government,” he said.

Mrs. Florence Akinyemi Adeseke, Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires in Tokyo, commended the achievements of Nigerians excelling in Japan as academics, innovators, and professionals, even as she acknowledged the need to address the misconduct of a small number of nationals violating immigration laws.

Earlier, Emeka Egbogota, President of the Nigerian Union in Japan, welcomed President Tinubu to what he described as “the Land of the Rising Sun,” applauding his vision for a prosperous Nigeria powered by technology, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth. He pledged the community’s support for the administration’s economic and diplomatic agenda.

The meeting ended with a renewed sense of partnership between the Nigerian government and its citizens abroad, as President Tinubu reiterated his commitment to building a country where every Nigerian home or abroad can thrive.