On Friday in Beijing, President Bola Tinubu declared his readiness to make tough decisions to advance Nigeria’s progress. Speaking to Nigerians in China at the conclusion of his official visit, Tinubu acknowledged the challenges leaders face in achieving national consensus.
Describing his trip as “very good and successful,” Tinubu highlighted his focus on enhancing cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, trade, finance, energy, the green economy, and mining. This was part of his discussions with Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, and his participation in the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit.
In his address to the Nigerian community and the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO) China at the China World Hotel, Tinubu emphasized the importance of Nigerians representing their country positively and remaining good ambassadors in China.
He stressed the need for discipline and dedication to national service, using China’s disciplined society as an example for Nigerians to emulate. “Without discipline and commitment, we cannot build a respected nation,” he said. “We must harness our diversity and act within the laws of our host communities to project a positive image of Nigeria.
Transformations
Emphasizing the significant impact of investments on China’s economy, President Tinubu assured Nigerians abroad that Nigeria’s Bank of Industry is ready to partner with them to capitalize on opportunities in Nigeria.
“Nigeria is undergoing substantial reforms, and we are making bold and unprecedented decisions.
“For instance, you might have noticed recent changes in fuel prices back home.
“But what alternative do we have? Can we develop the infrastructure you see here, such as well-maintained roads, reliable electricity, consistent water supply, and quality education?
“If we aim to leave a legacy of progress for future generations, we must make tough decisions to set the stage for a nation with immense talent and resources.
“Many of you are incredibly skilled, with fluent Mandarin. Your contributions and insights back home will shape the mindset of our people.
“Expecting everything to be provided for free only leads to increased costs and delayed progress in achieving meaningful development,” the President stated.
Key Takeaways from China
Amidst applause from the audience, President Tinubu highlighted that a major takeaway from his visit to China is the determination to replicate China’s impressive infrastructure advancements in Nigeria.
“We want our children to attend well-equipped schools, not decrepit buildings. Our goal is to foster innovative teaching and enable businesses of all sizes to thrive.
“Economic actions are interconnected, and it is up to us to build our nation. My role is to provide leadership, and I am dedicated to that mission,” he affirmed.
The President acknowledged the difficulty of achieving national consensus but expressed his readiness to make the tough decisions necessary to drive the country forward. “We are focused, and I have a highly capable team,” he added.
Dr. Oche Barnabas, President of NIDO China, praised President Tinubu for his dedication to enhancing Nigeria-China relations, especially in trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges. He voiced NIDO China’s support for Nigeria’s 4Ds initiative, introduced earlier this year by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar. Dr. Barnabas expressed the organization’s eagerness to advance this initiative within the diaspora community.
He also appealed to President Tinubu to advocate for Nigeria’s official recognition as a native English-speaking country, which would expand job and educational opportunities for Nigerians in China.
“Your Excellency, I would like to bring to your attention a significant challenge faced by the Nigerian community in China. Given the unique nature of this country, our community primarily consists of students, expatriates, and businessmen.
“We request that Nigeria be officially recognized as a native English-speaking nation in China. This recognition would open up more opportunities for Nigerians, as over 70% of international jobs here are reserved for native English speakers. In 2016, South Africa was granted this status, and we believe Nigeria deserves similar recognition due to English being our official language and the distinguished achievements of Professor Wole Soyinka, Nobel Laureate in Literature.
“This enhancement of our status would increase opportunities for Nigerians to study and work in China, thus boosting diaspora remittances to Nigeria,” he said.
The Chairman of NIDO China committed the organization to supporting President Tinubu’s administration and its efforts to elevate Nigeria’s global standing.
Explore Naijaecho.com.ng For More News Update’s