Amidst Nigeria’s economic challenges and fuel scarcity, President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians living in China that his administration will deliver on good governance. He also pledged to replicate the positive strides China has made for its citizens.
President Tinubu made these remarks today, Friday, September 6, during a meeting with representatives from the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization in China (NIDO China) and the Nigerian community at the China World Hotel in Beijing. This engagement was his final official act before departing for London via Dubai.
Describing his official visit to China as “very good and successful,” Tinubu highlighted his participation in the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). He also shared updates from his bilateral discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, which focused on strengthening cooperation in key sectors such as infrastructure, trade, finance, energy, the green economy, and mining.
“Nigeria is undergoing reforms, and we are making bold, unprecedented decisions. For example, you might have heard about the recent fuel price changes back home. But can we avoid it? Can we build good roads like the ones you see here? You have reliable electricity, clean running water, and good schools. And yet, we want to hand over a future to our children without taking hard steps?” Tinubu remarked.
He further noted, “Many of you are talented, speaking fluent Mandarin. It’s what you communicate back home that will influence the mindset of our people. The more we expect everything for free, the longer it will take to achieve meaningful development.”
A key takeaway from the President’s visit, he said, was the commitment to replicate China’s infrastructural achievements in Nigeria. “We want our children in good schools, not in dilapidated buildings. We need innovative teaching and thriving businesses of all sizes. Economic progress is interconnected, and it’s up to you to help build our nation. My role is to provide leadership, and I am fully committed to that.”
President Tinubu acknowledged that national consensus on tough issues isn’t always easy but emphasized his determination to make the necessary decisions for the nation’s progress. “We are focused, and I have a very good team,” he concluded.
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