President Bola Ahmer Tinubu has said Nigeria possesses all the resources necessary to thrive, stressing that it is time for decisive action.
Gatekeepers News reports that speaking on Tuesday during an engagement with Nigerians living in Brazil, Tinubu described his visit to the South American country as a strategic mission.
The president’s remarks were contained in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, his special adviser on information and strategy.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s potential compared with Brazil’s development trajectory, Tinubu said, “Once upon a time, Nigeria and Brazil stood 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.”
The president emphasised that his administration is focused on transformation through innovation, reform, and inclusive growth.
He said, “We must bring Nigeria to the forefront of Africa’s progress, driven by technology, food sovereignty, and the courage to change our destiny.”
Tinubu praised the Nigerian community in Brazil for their contributions abroad, urging them to see themselves as vital players in shaping the country’s future.
He said, “You are the pride of our nation. Your diversity, your commitment — it reflects the Nigeria we are working to build. I salute you all.”
Acknowledging the economic hardship facing citizens, he compared ongoing reforms to necessary but difficult treatment.
Tinubu explained, “Yes, the reforms are tough — like bitter medicine. But once the fever is gone, you know the cure was worth it.”
He urged Nigerians at home and abroad to embrace unity, peace, and shared responsibility in building a nation that everyone can be proud of.
Chika Emmanuel, chairman of the Nigerian diaspora in Brazil, commended Tinubu for strengthening ties between both countries.
Highlighting the growing academic achievements of Nigerians in Brazil, he said, “What we’re saying, sir, is that here through the diaspora, we would like to be a channel to this national development.”
“In that regard, we have started; we have actually been doing that for quite some time now in the area of agriculture, infrastructure, and of course, looking for direct investment back home.”
He added, “To be able to do that, I’ve also recognised, Your Excellency, sir, that human resources in terms of education is what we strongly need to be able to prepare the younger ones for tomorrow so that they can return home and participate.”
“What I have done, Your Excellency, is that in the past one year and a half since after my election, we had three PhD students at that time. And right now, in one year and a half, we have 296 here in Brazil. And all on scholarships, sir.”
