Tinubu Vows Prosperity Through Technology, Food Security Amid Tough Reforms

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to steering Nigeria toward long-term prosperity through technological advancement and food security, acknowledging that current economic hardships are necessary for future national renewal.

Speaking to members of the Nigerian community during his visit to Brazil on Tuesday, Tinubu emphasized that his administration’s bold reforms, though painful, are intended to reposition Nigeria as Africa’s leading economic force.

“We must bring Nigeria to the forefront of Africa’s progress, driven by technology, food sovereignty, and the courage to change our destiny,” the President said, according to a statement by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.

Tinubu drew comparisons between Nigeria and Brazil, noting both countries once shared similar economic standings, but Brazil has since surged ahead.

“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. Now, we must act,” he declared.

He praised the Nigerian diaspora in Brazil as “the pride of our nation,” urging them to contribute their talents, resources, and passion toward national development. “Your diversity and commitment reflect the Nigeria we are working to build. I salute you all,” Tinubu said.

The President also acknowledged the public outcry over his administration’s economic reforms but likened them to “bitter medicine” necessary for national healing.

“Yes, the reforms are tough. But once the fever is gone, you know the cure was worth it,” he remarked.

Tinubu expressed support for a forthcoming cultural initiative led by Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, describing the 90-year-old’s continued activism as an inspiration to Nigerians to pursue bold, transformative ideas.

Chairman of the Nigerian community in Brazil, Chika Emmanuel, thanked the President for strengthening ties between the two countries. He highlighted the diaspora’s growing contributions in agriculture, education, and infrastructure, and pointed to a remarkable increase in Nigerian PhD students in Brazil — from just three a year ago to 296, most on scholarship.

On calls for new consular offices in São Paulo and other cities, Tinubu urged patience, citing limited resources and the government’s focus on maintaining global diplomatic missions.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, described the engagement as “a moment of historical significance,” noting the renewed cultural and diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Brazil.

Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani also praised Tinubu’s economic policies, citing the clearing of a $7 billion foreign exchange backlog and the unification of exchange rates as key measures that have revived investor confidence.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, advised Nigerians in São Paulo to continue using the liaison office until permanent consular upgrades are implemented.

The event, organized by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), was attended by top government officials, including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris.