Tinubu Vows to Drive Nigeria’s Growth with Technology, Food Security, Draws Inspiration from Brazil
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fast-tracking Nigeria’s development through technology and food security, drawing lessons from Brazil’s economic trajectory.
Speaking on Tuesday during an interactive session with Nigerians in Brazil, the President said his government was determined to pursue transformation anchored on 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 change our destiny,” Tinubu said.
A statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Technology, Bayo Onanuga, noted that the President’s trip to Brazil was a strategic effort to strengthen bilateral relations and tap into the South American country’s model of progress, given that both nations once shared similar economic positions.
“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,” Tinubu added.
The President praised Nigerians in the diaspora for their resilience, describing them as key partners in rebuilding a new Nigeria.
“You are the pride of our nation. Your diversity, your commitment, it reflects the Nigeria we are working to build. I salute you all,” he said.
Tinubu also acknowledged the economic difficulties citizens are facing due to ongoing reforms, likening them to “bitter medicine” required for long-term stability. “Yes, the reforms are tough, like bitter medicine. But once the fever is gone, you know the cure was worth it,” he stated.
Referencing his recent diplomatic engagements, Tinubu stressed that his administration was laying a foundation for global partnerships in technology, manufacturing, and cultural exchange.
He expressed support for an upcoming voyage inspired by Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, noting, “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.”
Earlier, the Chairman of the Nigerian community in Brazil, Chika Emmanuel, pledged diaspora support for Nigeria’s development, highlighting contributions in agriculture, infrastructure, and education.
He disclosed that Nigerian postgraduate scholars in Brazil had grown from three PhD students to 296 in just one and a half years, all on scholarships.
Responding to calls for more consulates in Brazil, Tinubu urged patience, saying resources were being managed to ensure foreign missions remain functional.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, described the engagement as “a moment of great historical significance,” stressing the long-standing ties between Nigeria and Brazil and commending Tinubu’s efforts in strengthening bilateral relations.
Punch
