Nigeria Rebounds as Tinubu Rallies Diaspora for Growth
By Abiola Adigun
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians in the Diaspora not to abandon their roots but to contribute their expertise, capital, and networks to fast-track the nation’s development, declaring that “Nigeria is on the rise again.”
The President made the appeal on Thursday in Yokohama, Japan, during an interactive meeting with members of the Nigerian community on the sidelines of the ongoing Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9).
Gathered at the Kahala Hotel and Resort, the audience included doctors, entrepreneurs, students, and professionals working in Japan, many of whom listened as Tinubu outlined the achievements of his administration in areas such as economic reforms, healthcare upgrades, and digitalised passport issuance.
“I am happy to listen to you. I’m happy to report that many of our people are returning home,” Tinubu said. “Yes, some may decide to stay abroad — it is their right — but for Nigeria’s economic growth and opportunity, don’t stay away. If you stay away, who will build it?”
Tinubu’s message underscored what many analysts describe as an urgent need to tap into Nigeria’s estimated 17 million-strong Diaspora population, whose remittances consistently contribute over $20 billion annually to the economy.
Dr. Ayo Teriba, CEO of Economic Associates, told reporters that Tinubu’s call was timely. “No emerging economy has developed without the support of its Diaspora. China and India are prime examples. Nigeria must now position itself to harness Diaspora skills and resources for nation-building.”
The President stressed that governance alone cannot deliver national transformation without citizens abroad actively contributing to growth and serving as ambassadors.
“If we don’t join hands and work together, then we’ve lost the hope of being the leaders we are supposed to be,” Tinubu warned.
Tinubu invited senior government officials, including the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, and NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, to outline reforms in industrialization and technology. His nephew, oil magnate Wale Tinubu, also highlighted the positive impact of government policies on competitiveness, stock market growth, and investment flows.
The President emphasised that Nigeria’s healthcare sector was receiving a facelift to reverse medical tourism, while digital reforms had improved passport services both at home and abroad.
Economist Prof. Pat Utomi, in a separate interview, noted that while reforms were encouraging, trust was key. “The government’s outreach to the Diaspora is welcome, but Nigerians abroad will only return if they see transparent governance, security, and real opportunities.”
For Nigerians living in Japan, Tinubu’s words resonated with both pride and caution.
Mr. Emeka Ebogota, President of the Nigerian Union in Japan, said: “We are pleased the President took time to meet with us. Many of us want to give back to our country, and we welcome the reforms.”
Others expressed cautious optimism. Kingsley Kabuyashi, a Nigerian entrepreneur based in Tokyo, told journalists: “There is enthusiasm, but people want to see concrete guarantees on safety, infrastructure, and investment protections before making big moves back home.”
Tinubu also challenged Nigerians abroad to counter negative stereotypes about their homeland.
“The strength of citizenship is not only in holding a Nigerian passport but in character and commitment to the nation’s progress,” he said, adding that negative portrayals hurt Nigeria’s ability to attract global investment.
With Nigeria battling economic challenges and insecurity, experts say the Diaspora remains a critical but underutilised asset.
Political analyst Jide Ojo observed: “The President’s call is more than symbolic — it’s strategic. Diaspora Nigerians represent some of the most educated, resourceful, and globally connected citizens. Without their buy-in, Nigeria’s journey to sustainable growth will be slower.”
Following his engagements in Japan, the State House confirmed that President Tinubu departed Yokohama on Thursday night for the ultra-long-haul flight to Brazil, where he will begin a state visit on August 24.
According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), the President and his entourage will have a stopover in Los Angeles before continuing their journey to Brasilia, the Brazilian capital.
Tinubu began his two-nation visit on August 15 when he departed Abuja, with a stopover in Dubai before arriving in Yokohama on August 18.
In Japan, he attended the opening ceremony and plenary of TICAD9 on August 20, held bilateral meetings, and concluded his trip with the interactive session with Nigerians in the Diaspora before heading to Brazil.
As Tinubu left Yokohama, his message to the Diaspora was clear: home is where their contributions are most needed.
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