President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to accelerating Nigeria’s development through technology and food security, drawing inspiration from the success stories of emerging economies such as Brazil.
Speaking on Tuesday during an interactive session with Nigerians living in Brazil, the President stressed that his administration is focused on transformation anchored on innovation, reform, and inclusive growth.
“We must position Nigeria at the forefront of Africa’s progress, powered by technology, food sovereignty, and the courage to shape our destiny,” Tinubu declared.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Technology, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described his state visit to Brazil as strategic — aimed at deepening bilateral relations and learning from the South American nation’s impressive development path. He recalled that both Nigeria and Brazil once shared similar economic foundations.
“Once upon a time, Nigeria and Brazil were on the same level. Look at Brazil today — its technology, its food systems. We must ask ourselves: what do they have that we don’t? We have the brains, the energy, and the youth. We have everything we need. Now, we must act,” he said.
Commending the Nigerian diaspora in Brazil, Tinubu described them as vital stakeholders in the nation’s renewal. “You are the pride of our country. Your diversity and dedication reflect the Nigeria we are working to build. I salute you all,” he added.
He acknowledged the hardship created by ongoing economic reforms but maintained that they were necessary for long-term stability and prosperity. “Yes, the reforms are tough — like bitter medicine. But once the fever is gone, you realise the cure was worth it,” the President explained.
Highlighting his recent diplomatic engagements, Tinubu said his government is laying the foundation for global partnerships that will unlock Nigeria’s potential in manufacturing, technology, and cultural exchange.
He also expressed support for an upcoming cultural voyage involving Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, inspired by a similar initiative he launched as Lagos State governor. “If Wole Soyinka, at over 90, can still dream and act, then we have no excuse. The dream must be realised. The time is now,” Tinubu affirmed.
The President called on Nigerians at home and abroad to embrace unity, peace, and shared passion in building a nation they can all be proud of.
Earlier, Chairman of the Nigerian Diaspora Organisation in Brazil, Chika Emmanuel, praised Tinubu for strengthening Nigeria-Brazil relations and pledged the diaspora community’s support for national development. He highlighted the growing presence of Nigerian postgraduate students in Brazil, noting a significant increase from three PhD students to nearly 300 within 18 months, most on scholarships.
“We in the diaspora are eager to serve as a bridge for national development, especially in agriculture, infrastructure, and attracting direct investment. But human capital is critical — through education we must prepare the younger generation to return home and contribute,” Emmanuel said.
Responding to concerns about establishing consulates in São Paulo and other cities, Tinubu urged patience, explaining that the government was carefully managing limited resources to keep foreign missions functioning effectively.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, described Tinubu’s engagement with Nigerians in Brazil as historically significant, marking a new era in Nigeria’s relationship with its global community. He noted the deep historical ties between both countries, shaped by centuries of migration and cultural exchange, and emphasised the need to strengthen those bonds. Abbas also commended the President’s efforts in building stronger bilateral ties with Brazil, pointing out that recent diplomatic and cultural initiatives have laid the foundation for future collaborations between the two nations.
