President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to driving Nigeria’s development through technology, food security, and innovation, urging Nigerians in the diaspora to play a greater role in nation-building.
According to Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, speaking in Brasília on Tuesday during an interactive session with Nigerians living in Brazil, the President said his government is determined to replicate the success stories of emerging economies by pursuing reforms and inclusive growth.
“We must bring Nigeria to the forefront of Africa’s progress, driven by technology, food sovereignty, and the courage to change our destiny,” Tinubu said, stressing that Nigeria has the human capital and resources needed to transform.
The President described his visit to Brazil as a strategic effort to strengthen bilateral ties and draw lessons from the South American nation, which he noted once shared similar economic starting points with Nigeria.
While acknowledging the hardships occasioned by ongoing reforms, Tinubu likened them to “bitter medicine” necessary for long-term stability and prosperity. He assured that his administration is laying the foundation for global partnerships in manufacturing, technology, and cultural exchange.
Commending the Nigerian diaspora in Brazil, Tinubu urged them to see themselves as vital stakeholders in the country’s transformation. “You are the pride of our nation. Your diversity and commitment reflect the Nigeria we are working to build,” he said.
Chairman of the Nigerian community in Brazil, Chika Emmanuel, pledged diaspora support for national development, citing significant growth in Nigerian postgraduate scholars in Brazil — from just three PhD students a year ago to nearly 300 today, most on scholarships.
Responding to calls for new consulates, Tinubu appealed for patience, noting the government’s efforts to manage limited resources while keeping foreign missions functional.
Other speakers at the event — including Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas; Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani; and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu — praised Tinubu’s policies and renewed push to deepen ties with Brazil.
The meeting, coordinated by Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) Chairperson Abike Dabiri, was attended by top government officials, including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, and Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
