President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to driving Nigeria’s transformation through technology, food security, and inclusive growth, drawing inspiration from Brazil’s rapid development.
Speaking on Tuesday during an interactive session with Nigerians in Brazil, the President declared that Nigeria must reclaim its place as Africa’s powerhouse by embracing innovation and bold reforms.
“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.
Brazil as Inspiration for Nigeria’s Growth
Tinubu described his visit to Brazil as a strategic mission aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and learning from the South American nation’s impressive trajectory.
“Once upon a time, Nigeria and Brazil stood on the same level. Today, Brazil is ahead in technology and food systems. We must ask ourselves: what do they have that we don’t? We have the brains, the energy, and the youth. Now, we must act,” the President stressed.
Diaspora as Nation Builders
Tinubu commended the Nigerian diaspora in Brazil, describing them as pillars of national pride and urging them to play an active role in rebuilding the country.
“You are the pride of our nation. Your diversity and commitment reflect the Nigeria we are working to build. I salute you all,” he told the gathering.
The Chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora, Brazil chapter, Chika Emmanuel, pledged continued support for national development, highlighting the surge in Nigerian postgraduate scholars in Brazil — from just three PhD students to nearly 300 in under two years, all on scholarships.
Tough Reforms, Long-Term Gains
Acknowledging the current hardship in Nigeria, Tinubu likened his reforms to “bitter medicine” necessary for recovery.
“Yes, the reforms are tough, but once the fever is gone, you’ll see the cure was worth it,” he assured.
He also emphasized his government’s efforts to create global partnerships in technology, manufacturing, agriculture, and cultural exchange, citing Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka’s cultural voyage project as a symbol of resilience and vision.
Leaders Back Tinubu’s Vision
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, called the meeting a “historic moment” in strengthening ties between Nigeria and Brazil, two nations bonded by history and culture.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State praised Tinubu’s economic reforms, noting the clearance of a $7 billion forex backlog and removal of multiple exchange rates, which have restored investor confidence.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, urged Nigerians in São Paulo to keep using the liaison office pending consular upgrades.
The meeting was anchored by Abike Dabiri, Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, and attended by top government officials, including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, and Minister of Information Mohammed Idris.
Tinubu’s Call to Action
Closing his address, Tinubu passionately appealed to Nigerians at home and abroad to foster unity, peace, and innovation as the foundation for a nation that future generations can be proud of.
“If Wole Soyinka at over 90 can still dream and act, then we have no excuse. The dream must be realized. The time is now.”
