Tinubu urges Nigerians abroad to return and contribute to national development, saying Nigeria is on the rise again

Tinubu urges Nigerians abroad to return—declaring that Nigeria is “on the rise again” and needs the active participation of its citizens around the world to drive sustainable growth.

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Speaking during an interactive session in Yokohama, Japan, on the sidelines of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu addressed members of the Nigerian community, urging them not to “stay away” but to reconnect with their roots and contribute to the nation’s development.

I am happy to report that many of our people are returning home, Tinubu said.
Yes, some may stay away for economic reasons, but your contribution is very much needed. If you stay away, who will build it?

The President emphasized that rebuilding Nigeria is not the government’s task alone, but a shared responsibility among citizens—whether at home or abroad.

If we don’t join hands and work together, then we’ve lost the hope of being the leaders we are supposed to be, he warned.

He urged Nigerians in the Diaspora to act as ambassadors of the country, projecting a positive image and correcting damaging narratives that hinder international investment and partnerships.

President Tinubu cited recent reforms and improvements under his administration, including:

Streamlined passport processing to ease travel and identification.
Stabilizing economic fundamentals to restore investor confidence.
Healthcare investments aimed at reducing medical tourism.
Boosting the stock market and expanding business opportunities.

He described his leadership as a blend of visionary thinking and actionable steps, aimed at creating a stable, united, and prosperous Nigeria.

“Leadership is about thinking and doing — blending visionary ideas with practical actions to drive stability, unity, and growth,” he said. “Nigeria is on the rise again.”

Nigerians in Japan—ranging from professionals to students—welcomed the President’s message.
Mr. Emeka Ebogota, President of the Nigerian Union in Japan, thanked Tinubu for engaging directly with them and pledged support for his government’s reforms.

Top government officials at the event included: