President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday stressed the urgency of placing Nigeria at the forefront of Africa’s progress.
Addressing Nigerians in Brazil, he pledged to accelerate the nation’s development through technology and food security, drawing on the success models of emerging economies such as Brazil. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transformation through innovation, reform, and inclusive growth.
“We must bring Nigeria to the forefront of Africa’s progress, driven by technology, food sovereignty, and the courage to shape our destiny,” presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga quoted Tinubu as saying.
Describing his visit to Brazil as a strategic step to strengthen bilateral ties and learn from the country’s impressive development path, Tinubu reminded Nigerians that both nations once shared similar economic starting points.
“Once upon a time, Nigeria and Brazil stood at 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.
He praised the vibrant Nigerian diaspora community and urged them to see themselves as key contributors to building a new Nigeria rooted in innovation, culture, and shared responsibility.
“You are the pride of our nation. Your diversity and commitment reflect the Nigeria we are working to build. I salute you all,” Tinubu said.
Acknowledging the difficulties citizens face due to ongoing economic reforms, he maintained that these were essential steps towards long-term stability and prosperity.
“Yes, the reforms are tough — like bitter medicine. But once the fever is gone, you will know the cure was worth it,” he stated.
Tinubu added that his government was laying the foundation for global partnerships to unlock Nigeria’s potential in manufacturing, technology, and cultural exchange.
He urged Nigerians at home and abroad to foster unity, peace, and determination to build a country everyone could proudly call home.
“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,” he concluded.