President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians in the diaspora to return home, assuring them that the country is on a new path of growth and needs their contributions.
Speaking at the Kahala Hotel and Resort, Yokohama, Japan, during an interactive session with Nigerians on the sidelines of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), Tinubu said his administration is committed to building an environment where citizens can thrive.
He noted that while some may choose to remain abroad for personal or economic reasons, Nigeria’s progress depends on collective effort. “Your contribution is very much needed. If you stay away, who will build it?” he asked.
The President stressed that development cannot be left to government alone, calling on Nigerians abroad to serve as true ambassadors and project a positive image of the country. He added that citizenship is not only about holding a passport but also about showing character and commitment to national progress.
Highlighting reforms, Tinubu pointed to improved passport issuance, stabilised economic fundamentals, investment in healthcare to reduce medical tourism, and programmes to expand business opportunities, attract investors, and boost the stock market.
Members of the Nigerian community in Japan, including professionals, entrepreneurs, and students, pledged support for the reforms. Emeka Ebogota, President of the Nigerian Union in Japan, thanked Tinubu for engaging directly with them and affirmed the Union’s readiness to contribute to Nigeria’s transformation.
The event was attended by senior officials including Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake, Minister of Regional Development Abubakar Momoh, Minister of Science and Technology Uche Nnaji, Minister of Budget Atiku Bagudu, and Minister of State for Finance Doris Uzoka-Anite.
