President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appealed to Nigerians in the diaspora to consider returning home, assuring them that the country is on a renewed path of progress and requires their skills and contributions to succeed.
Speaking at the Kahala Hotel and Resort in 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 creating an enabling environment for citizens to thrive.
He emphasized that while some Nigerians may choose to remain abroad for personal or economic reasons, the nation’s long-term progress depends on collective effort. “Your contribution is very much needed. If you stay away, who will build it?” the President asked.
Tinubu underscored that national development cannot be left to government alone, urging Nigerians abroad to serve as true ambassadors and to project a positive image of the country. He further explained that citizenship extends beyond holding a passport — it requires character, responsibility, and commitment to building a better Nigeria.
Highlighting reforms under his administration, the President cited improved passport issuance processes, stabilisation of economic indicators, ongoing investment in healthcare to reduce medical tourism, and programmes designed to attract investors, boost the stock market, and expand business opportunities.
The Nigerian community in Japan, made up of professionals, entrepreneurs, and students, welcomed the engagement. Emeka Ebogota, President of the Nigerian Union in Japan, thanked Tinubu for the direct interaction and pledged the Union’s support for Nigeria’s transformation.
The event was attended by senior government officials including Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, Solid Minerals Minister Dele Alake, Regional Development Minister Abubakar Momoh, Science and Technology Minister Uche Nnaji, Budget Minister Atiku Bagudu, and Minister of State for Finance Doris Uzoka-Anite.
