Who Will Build Nigeria If You Stay Away? – Tinubu Challenges Diaspora In Japan

…President Tinubu Calls For Shared Responsibility In National Growth, Highlights Reforms At TICAD9

Dr. Nafisat Makinde

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians in the Diaspora to take active roles in national development, warning that staying away from home would only delay the country’s growth.

According to a press statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu made the call on Thursday during an interactive session with members of the Nigerian community at the Kahala Hotel and Resort, Yokohama, on the sidelines of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9).

The President asked rhetorically: “If you stay away, who will build it?” as he encouraged the Diaspora to project the country positively, invest at home, and return when possible.

“I am happy to report that many of our people are returning home. Yes, for economic reasons, some may decide to stay away; it is a fundamental right of the individual. But for the economic growth and opportunity available in Nigeria, don’t stay away. Your contribution is very much needed,” he said.

Tinubu assured his audience that Nigeria is “on the rise again” under his leadership, citing reforms that have stabilised the economy, expanded the stock market, and created a more competitive environment for businesses.

He highlighted improvements in passport issuance, efforts to upgrade healthcare facilities to reduce medical tourism, and policies aimed at attracting investment and creating jobs.

The President stressed that building a stronger Nigeria requires joint responsibility: “National development cannot be left to the government alone. If we don’t join hands and work together, then we’ve lost the hope of being the leaders we are supposed to be.”

Some Nigerians in Japan, including professionals, entrepreneurs, and students, pledged their support for the government’s reforms. Emeka Ebogota, President of the Nigerian Union in Japan, thanked Tinubu for engaging with the community and reaffirmed their commitment to contribute to Nigeria’s progress.

Also present at the meeting were ministers, senior government officials, and private sector leaders who joined the President to highlight opportunities in industry, science, technology, and finance.